Protective effects of Co-Q10, Ginkgo biloba, and l-carnitine on brain, kidney, liver, and endocrine system against sub-acute heavy metals toxicity in male rats

Abstract

Since occupational exposure to heavy metals is associated with diverse disorders, the present study evaluates the ameliorative and protective capacity of Co enzyme Q10, l-carnitine and Ginkgo biloba against systemic sub-acute cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) toxicity in male rats. We randomly divided 24 adult male rats into four groups of six rats each; they were placed in pairs in plastic cages. The intoxicated (Group 1) received a mixture of Cd (2 mg/kg) and Pb (60 mg/kg) orally for 30 days. The protected (Group 2) received Co-Q10 (100 mg/kg), l-carnitine (100 mg/kg), and G. biloba (100 mg/kg) orally once daily for 30 days before oral administration of Cd and Pb mixture. The comparison (Group 3) received Co-Q10 (100 mg/kg), l-carnitine (100 mg/kg), and G. biloba (100 mg/kg) administered orally once daily for 30 days. The control group received normal saline orally in volumes equal to those of the substances administered to the other groups. At the end of the study period, all rats were killed, blood was withdrawn, and organs were excised for biochemical and histopathological analyses. Group (1) showed the least weight gain, hyperthyroidism (high free T4, while TSH was suppressed), decreased testosterone secretion, abnormal liver and renal functions that were associated with damaged cells. Heavy metals adversely affect lipid profile and significantly decreased glutathione levels in serum and tested organs tissues. The administration of Co-Q10, l-carnitine, and G. biloba) showed significant protection against endocrine disorder and organs damage, including improvements in liver and renal functions and a significant increase in glutathione level. Rat exposure to Co-Q10, l-carnitine, and G. biloba is associated with protective effects on Pb- and Cd-mediated toxicity of brain, kidney, liver, and endocrine system.