In vitro effect of gold and silver nanoparticles on human spermatozoa

The cytotoxicity of Au/Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on human spermatozoa was
investigated in vitro. Semen from donors were incubated (37 °C, 60?-120?) with
30, 60, 125, 250 and 500 lM Au/Ag-NPs. Sperm motility was evaluated following
WHO guidelines; sperm viability was assessed with eosin Y test. Au-NPs
were characterised and localised with field emission gun-based scanning transmission
electron microscope/energy dispersive spectroscopy and transmission
electron microscopy. Both tested NPs exerted a significant dose-dependent
effect on motility and viability of human spermatozoa (P < 0.001). Ag-NPs
seem to show a slightly elevated toxicity although not significant (P > 0.05).
Au-NPs were localised in spermatozoa, whereas Ag-NPs were undetectable. In
conclusion, Au-NPs and Ag-NPs do not appear to be harmful for human spermatozoa
up to high concentrations (250-500 lM) that are probably difficult to
reach in vivo. It is mandatory to explore the genotoxic effect of NPs in germ
cells.