Systemic administration of gold nanoparticles attenuates anxiety-related behaviors and enhances spatial learning performance in rats

Abstract

Background

Due to the unique characteristics of gold nanoparticles, including low toxicity, tissue compatibility, high surface-to-volume ratio, excellent stability, lack of immunogenicity, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, gold nanoparticles can affect brain cells and impact neuronal functions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on rats' anxiety, memory, and learning ability.

Method

This study was conducted on 35 male Wistar rats that were obtained from the Animal Center of Baqiyatallah University. In order to measure the anxiety level of rats, an open field test and elevated maze were used. To measure the spatial learning of rats, the Barnes maze test was used. Also, to measure active avoidance behavior, the shuttle box was used. Data analysis was done using one-way ANOVA and P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The results of the study showed that gold nanoparticles with doses of 200 and 300 μg/ml had a significant effect on memory and learning, which was observed both in the Barnes maze and the shuttle box test. Also, gold nanoparticles with a dose of 100 μg/ml reduced the induced anxiety of the animal, which had a significant difference with the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study revealed that gold nanoparticles can impact rats' anxiety, memory, and learning. This suggests gold nanoparticles could be a new therapy to help with anxiety and cognitive issues in rodents, with potential benefits for humans.