Aluminium oxide nanoparticles compromise spatial learning and memory performance in rats

Recently, the biosafety and potential influences of nanoparticles on central nervous system have received more attention. In the present study, we assessed the effect of aluminium oxide nanoparticles (Al₂O₃-NPs) on spatial cognition. Male Wistar rats were intravenously administered Al₂O₃-NP suspension (20 mg/kg body weight/day) for four consecutive days, after which they were assessed. The results indicated that Al₂O₃-NPs impaired spatial learning and memory ability. An increment in malondialdehyde levels with a concomitant decrease in superoxide dismutase activity confirmed the induction of oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Additionally, our findings showed that exposure to Al₂O₃-NPs resulted in decreased acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus. Furthermore, Al₂O₃-NPs enhanced aluminium (Al) accumulation and disrupted mineral element homoeostasis in the hippocampus. However, they did not change the morphology of the hippocampus. Our results show a connection among oxidative stress, disruption of mineral element homoeostasis, and Al accumulation in the hippocampus, which leads to spatial memory deficit in rats treated with Al₂O₃-NPs.