Titanium dioxide nanoparticles as a risk factor for the health of Neotropical tadpoles: a case study of Dendropsophus minutus (Anura: Hylidae)

Abstract

The production and use of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are increasing worldwide. The release of this substance into the environment can induce toxic effects in aquatic invertebrates and vertebrates, although the exact nature of its impacts on Neotropical amphibians is still poorly understood. In this context, the present study evaluated the toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles and their counterpart-dissolved titanium dioxide (TiO2)-in the tadpoles of Dendropsophus minutus. The biometric parameters, DNA damage, and behavioral changes were verified in tadpoles exposed to three different concentrations (0.1 mg·L-1, 1.0 mg·L-1, and 10 mg·L-1) of TiO2 nanoparticles and dissolved TiO2 for 7 days. We verified significant DNA damage in the D. minutus tadpoles exposed to both forms of Ti, in comparison with the control group. We also identified a reduction in total size, body length, and width, and the height of the musculature of the tail of the tadpoles exposed to all concentrations of both substances in comparison with the control. In the behavioral test, the tadpoles exposed to nanoparticles and dissolved TiO2 presented reduced mobility and a tendency to be less aggregated than normal. Here, the simultaneous use of multiple biomarkers was fundamental for the reliable assessment of the adverse effects of nanomaterials on anuran amphibians and the establishment of a systematic approach to the biomonitoring of aquatic ecosystems. The present study expands our understanding of the genotoxic, morphological, and behavioral effects of TiO2 nanoparticles and dissolved TiO2 on anuran amphibians, and contributes to the establishment of further research for the more systematic assessment of the environmental risk of nanomaterials.