ABSTRACT

Aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al₂O₃ NP) is being widely used in numerous industrial and commercial applications. This study was designed to investigate the acute effect of Al₂O₃NPs on total proteins of African catfish Clarias gariepinus embryos. The embryos were treated to varying concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 5 and 10 mg/L) of the individual nanoparticle for 48hrs and assessed for total proteins using a spectrophotometer. The study showed a concentration of proportionate inhibition in the activity of the total protein in exposed fish embryos. Total proteins increased slightly with increase in the concentration of Al₂O₃ NP. Among the treatment groups, protein level was highest in the 0.5mg/L treatment group and lowest in the 10 mg/L group. In spite of the increase in total protein activity, the analysis revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in the mean protein levels of all treatment groups (0.5, 1, 5 and 10 mg/L) when compared with the control (p>0.05). These results suggest the potential ecotoxicological effects of nanoparticles on fishes and aquatic biota. Understanding the mechanisms of nanoparticle toxicity, especially oxidative stress, is crucial for mitigating potential environmental and health risks associated with nanoparticle exposure in aquatic environments.