Exploring the Impact of Triple Antibiotic Paste and Nanosilica- Triple Antibiotic Paste on the Embryonic Development Stages of Zebrafish

Abstract

Background: Triple Antibiotic Paste (TAP) is widely used as an intracanal medicament in endodontics. With the
introduction of nanosilica-based formulations (Np-TAP) to enhance delivery and efficacy, concerns regarding their
potential environmental and developmental toxicity have emerged. Aim: To evaluate the developmental toxicity
of TAP and nanosilica-based TAP (Np-TAP) on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos by assessing hatching rates
and viability. Materials and Methods: Zebrafish embryos were exposed to TAP and Np-TAP at concentrations
ranging from 10 to 160 µL from 24 to 96 hours post-fertilization. Untreated embryos served as controls. Embryonic
development, hatching rates, viability, and morphological changes were assessed at 24-hour intervals. Results:
Both TAP and Np-TAP induced dose-dependent delays in hatching. Lower concentrations demonstrated complete
recovery of hatching by 48 hours, whereas higher concentrations significantly inhibited hatching, with complete
absence observed at the highest doses by 96 hours. Embryo viability decreased progressively with increasing
concentration and exposure duration, despite initially being 100% across all groups. Incorporation of nanosilica
did not reduce the developmental toxicity associated with TAP. Conclusion: High concentrations of TAP and
Np-TAP adversely affect zebrafish embryonic development, indicating potential ecological risks. The addition
of nanosilica did not mitigate TAP-induced toxicity. These findings emphasize the need for precise dosing in
endodontic applications and warrant further environmental risk assessments of antibiotic-containing nanomaterials.