Nano gold-loaded Nannochloropsis oculata attenuates fluoride-induced neural and hepatorenal toxicity by modulating the Nrf2/NF-κB axis and aquaporins

Abstract Background Sodium fluoride (F) is ubiquitously present in the environment and affects animals’ and humans’ health. Nannochloropsis oculata (NO) is a microalga that contains bioactive components with a preferential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action. This study aimed to assess the tenable protective role of NO and nano-gold (AuNO) extracts toward F-evoked toxicity in rats. Methods Six groups of male rats were assigned. The CTL (control) group was given distilled water; the NO group, rats were given NO extract (250 mg/kg b.w.), and AuNO group, rats received 500 mg/kg b.w of AuNO extract. Further, F group was given F (30 mg/kg b.w). NO + F group, and AuNO + F rats were administered with a combination of AuNO and F. Results F exposure caused noteworthy and significant oxidative stress and apoptosis. Additionally, there is a highly significant major regulation of proinflammatory genes and proteins. Furthermore, F significantly downregulated the kidney’s aquaporins, which can be used to identify renal impairment early. F-triggered damage was considerably reduced by pretreatment with both algal extracts. Conclusions Our findings support NO supplementation as it exerts alleviating effects against F-prompted toxicity, including the restoration of AQPs expression. The effects were more pronounced with AuNO treatment, suggesting its enhanced protective potential.