Turkish Journal of Biology

Abstract: This study investigated lead impact on blood, serum glucose and kidney function and the efficacy of treatment with chelating agents meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (CaNa₂-EDTA) and natural olive and garlic oils to reduce lead toxicity in albino rats. Oral administration of 1000 or 2000 ppm lead acetate significantly decreased red blood cell count, hemoglobin level and hematocrit value at 20, 40 and 60 days compared with control groups (rats administered deionized water and 1000 or 2000 ppm sodium acetate). Serum glucose was also decreased significantly with both doses of lead acetate administration. In contrast, serum urea, uric acid and creatinine were significantly increased. Garlic or olive oils (1 ml/kg body weight/day, each) alleviated the previous changes in blood, serum glucose and renal parameters, whereas DMSA (50 mg/kg body weight/day) or CaNa₂-EDTA (100 mg/kg body weight/day) reversed such changes to near the control levels. Although chemical therapy is more efficient in reducing lead toxicity, natural products with their fewer side effects are still preferable.

Key Words: Lead acetate, blood, kidney, albino rats, therapy, chelating agents, natural oils