Boron supplementation provides hepato-protective effect and improves performance in Wistar rats fed calcium deficit diet

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of boron (B) supplementation in rats fed diets with adequate and deficit calcium (Ca). A feeding trial of 90 days duration was conducted in 84 Wistar strain rats divided into 7 groups, viz. Normal-Ca (100%) basal diet (NC) and supplemented with B at 5 (NCB-5), 10 (NCB-10), 20 (NCB-20) and 40 (NCB-40) ppm levels; low-Ca (50%) diet (LC) and supplemented with 40 ppm B (LCB-40). During 80–85 days of feeding, a digestibility trial was conducted to record nutrient digestibility. Rats (8) from each group were sacrificed to collect blood and visceral organs to study biochemical parameters and histopathology. The average daily feed and water intake were similar among the dietary groups. Body weight gain was lower in rats fed LC diet and increased in the LCB-40 group. Nutrient (dry matter, crude protein, crude fat) digestibility was significantly improved with B-supplementation to NC diets. Serum levels of triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol and alanine transaminase were significantly lowered in B-supplemented groups. The levels of glucose, total cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate transaminase in serum remained unaltered among the dietary groups. Degenerative changes were observed in the liver of rats fed Ca-deficient diets and were ameliorated with 40 ppm B supplementation. Results indicated that dietary supplementation of B in rats showed improved nutrient digestibility, growth and lowered serum levels of triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol and alanine transaminase. Hepatic tissue alterations due to lower Ca intake were ameliorated with B supplementation.