Ameliorating effects of garlic, calcium, and vitamin C on chronic lead toxicity in albino rats

Abstract

Lead is a heavy toxic metal widely distributed in the environment. Lead exposure in Egypt remains a health challenge among children and among traffic controllers, and is manifested by anemia and poor performance. Recently, natural herbs are believed to protect the body against lead-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity. Garlic extract, calcium carbonate, and vitamin C were investigated for possible protective effect against chronic lead toxicity in albino rats. Forty adult female albino rats were divided equally into five groups. Groups 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 received distilled water, lead acetate (L), L + garlic extract, L + calcium carbonate, and L + vitamin C, respectively, for 10 weeks. Group 2 was found to have anemia, with significant decreases in RBC count, Hb concentration, PCV %, and MCV and MCH values. Moreover, significant elevations in serum ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine were detected. Histopathologically, edema and necrosis of the kidneys, necrobiotic changes in the brain, fatty degeneration of the liver, and lymphoid depletion of the spleen were observed in group 2. The hematological picture in groups 3, 4, and 5 was almost within the control values and significantly better than that of group 2, except that the RBC counts in group 4 were still lower than that of the control group. In groups 3, 4, and 5, the values for AST, ALT, and creatinine were significantly lower than those of group 2; by contrast, urea levels were significantly higher than control levels and non-significantly lower than those of group 2. Histopathological changes in the hepatic, renal, brain, and splenic tissues were better in groups 3, 4, and 5 compared to those of group 2. Using garlic extract or calcium carbonate alleviated hematological, biochemical, and pathological changes, while vitamin C was shown to ameliorate and correct such parameters closed to the normal levels. In conclusion, vitamin C has a greater protective effect than garlic or calcium against lead toxicity.