Effect of Genetically Modified Soybean Oil Consumption on Biochemical and Histological Changes of Liver and Kidney in Rats

Abstract

Background: The use of transgenic foods has increased global food production and food security. However, there are concerns about their potential negative impacts on health. Studies conducted on the effect of transgenic products on humans and animals are limited, and they do not provide an answer regarding the possible health hazards of transgenic products. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of a diet containing genetically modified soybean oil on organ health and biochemical changes in an experimental model. Methods: The current study was conducted on 18 male Wistar rats in three different groups (6 rats per group). One group was fed a diet containing %10 genetically modified soybean oil for 90 days, while the other two groups served as control groups, receiving either non-genetically modified soybean oil or a standard diet, respectively. Body weight and food consumption were measured once and three times a week, respectively. Results: Our findings indicated that transgenic soybean oil contributed to several histological derangements, including congestion, necrosis, and bile duct hyperplasia in the liver analysis. Similarly, congestion, hemorrhage, and glomerulosclerosis were observed in the kidney analysis. Moreover, transgenic soybean oil significantly increased gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (P=0.047) and insulin (P=0.048) levels compared to a standard diet. Furthermore, urea and triglycerides (TG) were significantly higher in genetically modified (GM)-fed rats compared to rats fed with standard or non-GM diet (P<0.001). Conclusion: According to the results, a 90-day treatment with transgenic soy-based oil caused significant organ changes in the liver and kidneys of rats. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effects to better elucidate these impacts.