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Comparative effects of two different aluminum nanoparticle formulations on the histological and physiological aspects of Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera: Drosophilidae) as a model

Elbrense, Hanaa1; N. El-Nahass, Marwa1; El-Kholy, Samar1

Research facility: Tanta University
Published Jul 16, 2025 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.wwpzgmsxf

Data files

Jul 16, 2025 version files 63.80 MB

Abstract

Recycling aluminum, which is widely utilized in industries such as packaging, poses a significant challenge in selecting the most efficient method that retains its properties while minimizing environmental impact. This study investigates the potential adverse effects of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3 NPs) synthesized from disposable aluminum foil waste using two different recycling methods: conventional grinding (CG) and ball milling (BM). This study employs Drosophila melanogaster as a well-established in vivo model organism to determine which recycling technique yields nanoparticles (NPs) that are less harm to non-targets. To assess this, relevant concentration of Al2O3 NPs formulations was added into the food media. Seven days post feeding, alterations of adult’s midgut were analyzed at physiological and ultrastructure levels. The results showed that Al2O3 NPs had significant effects on digestive enzymes, regardless of how they are synthesized. In contrast to chitinase and protease, the activities of digestive enzymes such as lipase, phospholipase A2, and carboxypeptidase were significantly higher in flies exposed to Al2O3 NPs synthesized by BM than those in fed on control food media or those supplemented with Al2O3 NPs synthesized by CG. Histological and ultrastructural analyses revealed that both formulations of Al2O3 NPs negatively impacted the midgut cells. However, the harmful effects were more pronounced in NPs synthesized by the BM method compared to those produced using the CG method. Where indistinct peritrophic membrane and disrupted microvilli, columnar and goblet cells with numerous vacuoles were recorded. Collectively, while the findings confirm the toxicity of Al2O3 NPs to Drosophila, the synthesis method used to process aluminum and convert it into nanoparticle form plays a significant role in determining its potential hazards and should be carefully considered.