Resveratrol protects against iron oxide nanoparticle-induced toxicity in the liver, kidney and lung of rats: histopathological and biochemical evidence

Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NPs) are used in various applications due to their physical and biochemical properties. However, there are concerns about their long-term impact on human health. Resveratrol (RSV) is a biologically active compound has various pharmacological effects. This study aims to investigate the cytotoxic effects of high doses of Fe2O3 NPs in adult male albino rats through subacute oral administration, focusing on the liver, kidney and lung. The study also examined the potential protective effects of resveratrol (25 mg/kg/day) against Fe2O3 NPs (1000 mg/kg/day)-induced cytotoxicity, both histologically and biochemically. The light and electron microscopy results of liver tissue showed that resveratrol reduced Fe2O3 NPs-induced hepatic injuries, including reduced necrosis, cellular vacuolization, inflammatory cell accumulation, and sinusoidal dilation. Similarly, microscopic investigations revealed that resveratrol partially ameliorated Fe2O3 NPs‑induced damage to the kidney structure. Furthermore, resveratrol significantly reduced the cytotoxicity of nanoparticles in lung tissues, reducing inflammatory cells, blood extravasation, and epithelial damage. Biochemical tests indicated that RSV significantly reduced the activity of ALT, AST, and LDH, which were elevated by Fe2O3 NPs‑induced cytotoxicity at p < 0.05. Our findings indicate that RSV attenuates Fe2O3 NPs-induced cytotoxicity in the liver, kidney and lung, with the most consistent biochemical and histological improvements observed in hepatic, renal and pulmonary tissues.