Protective effects of antioxidant vitamins (C plus E) against oxidative damage induced by the insecticide imidacloprid in male rats

Abstract

IntroductionImidacloprid (IMC) is a synthetic neonicotinoid insecticide that is used in agriculture against harmful insects.AimThis study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of the IMC formulation on biochemical, hematological parameters, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and testosterone levels in male rats, and to determine the potential protective activity of vitamin C and E against IMC insecticides in rats.Material and methodsThe rats were divided into four groups. The first group was used as a control. The second, third, and fourth groups received vitamin C (200 mg/kg) plus vitamin E (200 mg/kg), IMC (45 mg/kg), and IMC plus vitamin C and E, respectively, for 28 days. At the end of treatment, blood and tissue samples were collected. Biochemical, hematological parameters, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, AFP, and testosterone were evaluated.ResultsThe results elucidated that the IMC significantly caused elevation in the serum liver and kidney functions, lipid profile, AFP, and pro-inflammatory marker levels, as well as liver and kidney oxidative stress markers. While the serum testosterone level and complete blood count were disturbed, besides that, the liver and kidney antioxidant enzymes activities were decreased.ConclusionsThe protective effect of vitamins C plus E against IMC toxicity in the rat have a beneficial role in combating the adverse effects of IMC.