Sub-chronic effects of AgNPs and AuNPs on Gammarus fossarum (Crustacea Amphipoda): From molecular to behavioural responses

The aim of the present study was assessment sub-chronic effects silver (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) 40 nm primary size either stabilised with citrate (CIT) or coated polyethylene glycol (PEG) on freshwater invertebrate Gammarus fossarum. Silver nitrate (AgNO3) used as a positive control in order to contribution ions potentially released from AgNPs observed effects. A multibiomarker approach assess long-term AuNPs molecular, cellular, physiological behavioural responses G. Specimen fossarum were exposed for 15 days 0.5 5 µg L?1 CIT PEG presence food. significant uptake both Ag Au animals but under toxic threshold leading mortality (CIT-AgNPs PEG-AgNPs nm) led an up-regulation Na+K+ATPase gene expression. An Catalse Chitinase expressions due exposure also observed. Gold (CIT PEG-AuNPs increase CuZnSOD Furthermore, more developed digestive lysosomal system indicating general stress response Both significantly affected locomotor activity while no haemolymphatic ventilation.