The effects of copper-based nanoparticles on the immune system of the white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)

The application and development of nanotechnology is increasingly expanded in many areas. However, considering this expansion, several concerns regarding their potential toxicity in marine biology have been addressed. Indeed, the overuse of these materials can adversely influence marine ecosystems and living organisms. Herein, the potential impact of copper-based nanoparticles on the expression level of three genes, i.e. prophenoloxidase, serine protein and glutathione peroxidase genes functioning in shrimp immune response, were assessed. For this end, the shrimps were exposed to three semi-acute toxicity treatments, including 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/L of CuNPs. The qRT-PCR results indicated negative effect of supplied nanoparticle on the expression level of these genes. Additionally, histopathological alterations in the hepatopancreas and lymphoid organs were observed in the shrimps after exposure in different concentrations of CuNPs. Overall, we showed that toxic concentration of CuNPs can damage shrimp immune system as well as some internal organs. These results open up novel insights into innate immunity of shrimps subjected to copper-based nanoparticles.