Caffeic acid attenuates acrylamide induced biochemical, hematological, and histological alterations in rats

Abstract

Acrylamide, a ubiquitous industrial chemical, and food contaminant, has been implicated in various toxicological effects, including biochemical, hematological, and histological alterations. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effects of caffeic acid against acrylamide-induced toxicity in a rat model. Rats were divided into three different groups, including a control group, an acrylamide-exposed group (19.13 mg/kg), and groups treated with acrylamide (19.13 mg/kg for 28 days) + caffeic acid (20 mg/kg after 28 days exposure to acrylamide). Biochemical parameters, hematological indices, and histopathological changes were systematically evaluated to assess the impact of acrylamide and the ameliorative effects of caffeic acid. Our results revealed that acrylamide exposure led to significant alterations in biochemical markers, hematological and serological parameters, and histological architecture in liver, kidney, and brain tissues. However, administration of caffeic acid demonstrated attenuation of these adverse effects. The protective effects of caffeic acid were evident through the restoration of key biochemical parameters, maintenance of hematological and serological homeostasis, and preservation of tissue histology. Furthermore, our findings suggest that caffeic acid may exert its protective effects through antioxidant mechanisms, as evidenced by the reduction in oxidative stress markers. In conclusion, this study provides comprehensive insights into the protective potential of caffeic acid against acrylamide-induced biochemical, hematological, serological, and histological alterations in rats. The observed ameliorative effects underscore the therapeutic potential of caffeic acid as a promising adjunct in mitigating the toxicological consequences of acrylamide exposure.