# Biocompatibility of Nickel Ferrite Nanoparticles on Systemic and Testicular Cells

## TL;DR

This study examines how nickel ferrite nanoparticles affect the viability and function of systemic and testicular cells, revealing potential risks and mechanisms of toxicity.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the biocompatibility and internalization mechanisms of nickel ferrite nanoparticles in male reproductive cells.

## Key findings

- FeNi NPs at 500 μg/mL reduced the viability of systemic and male reproductive cells.
- At 100 μg/mL, FeNi NPs increased cell death via apoptosis and necrosis in Leydig and germ cells.
- FeNi NPs were rapidly internalized in testicular cells, observed via TEM, and increased reactive oxygen species.

## Abstract

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles
(NPs) are chemically stable and have
a surface suitable for functionalization, making them potential biotechnological
tools in male reproduction. Herein, the nickel ferrite (FeNi) NPs
were synthesized by the hydrothermal method and presented colloidal
stability, low aggregation, high crystallinity, and superparamagnetic
behavior at room temperature. At a dose of 500 μg/mL, FeNi NPs
reduced the viability of systemic and male reproductive cells at all
time points. We selected 100 μg/mL to further investigate its
effects on testicular cells, as it was safe for VERO and AML-12 cells.
For male reproductive cells, we observed that the selected FeNi NP
dose significantly increased cell death by apoptosis and necrosis
in Leydig cells, and by apoptosis in germ cells. We observed rapid
internalization of FeNi NPs in both cell types within the first 5
min of exposure. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed their
presence in the cytoplasm and within vesicles, suggesting internalization
via passive diffusion and endocytosis. Additionally, phagosome formation
was noted in TM3 cells. The rapid and extensive internalization of
these nanoparticles within testicular cells may result in cellular
apoptosis. We also observed an increase in reactive oxygen species
after exposure of male reproductive cells to FeNi NP. These findings
provide a foundation for future investigations into the biomedical
applications of FeNi nanoparticles in reproductive cells.