Effect of nanoparticle stabilization and physicochemical properties on exposure outcome: acute toxicity of silver nanoparticle preparations in zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Nanotechnology has vast potential for expanded development and novel application in numerous sectors of society. With growing use and applications, substantial production volumes and associated environmental release can be anticipated. Exposure effect of nanoparticles (NP) on biological systems may be intrinsic to their physicochemical properties introducing unknown associated risk. Herein, we expand the knowledge of health and environmental impact of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), testing the acute toxicity of 14 AgNP preparations on developing zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio). Toxicological end points, including mortality, hatching rate, and heart rate were recorded. Concentration, stabilization agent and physicochemical properties were monitored as contributing outcome factors. Our findings indicate wide ranging LC50 24 h postfertilization values (0.487 ppm (0.315, 0.744 95% CI) to 47.89 ppm (18.45, 203.49 95% CI)), and indicate surface charge and ionic dissolution as key contributory factors in AgNP exposure outcome.