Sub-Acute Toxicity of Al2O3 Nanoparticles in the Marine Gastropod Stramonita Haemastoma: Oxidative Stress and Neurotoxicity.

This study evaluated the toxicity of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al₂O₃ NPs) using the marine gastropod Stramonita haemastoma as a model organism. As nanotechnology has advanced, metallic nanoparticles (NPs) such as Al₂O₃ have become widely used in industries like chemicals and medicine due to their beneficial nanoscale properties. However, greater NP application has also raised environmental concerns since aquatic ecosystems experience indirect NP discharges. Marine invertebrates are relevant for assessing NP ecotoxicity given their ecological importance. In this research, snails were exposed to 1, 2.5, and 5 mg/L of Al₂O₃ NPs over seven days. Biomarkers were then measured to indicate stress responses. Results showed Al₂O₃ NPs significantly inhibited Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity, suggesting neurotoxic effects. They also trigged Glutathione (GSH) levels and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the digestive gland, indicating induced oxidative stress. This study demonstrates the ability of Al₂O₃ NPs to harm marine gastropods through neurotoxic and oxidative mechanisms and highlights the need for further investigation into nanoparticle impacts on aquatic life.