Effect of lead toxicity on mineral metabolism and immunological factors in rats

This study was carried on 40 male albino rats to evaluate the toxic effects of Lead on minerals and immunological factors. The rats were divided into four equal groups. Group I kept as control group, group II was fed 1.0% Turmeric powder for 11-week, group III was injected (i.p) with 8 mg/kg bwt lead acetate trihydrate, (from 3rd to11th week), given 4 days a week, rats in group IV were fed Turmeric 1% before and along with Lead at the same previous dose. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis at the end of experiment. The results revealed that a significant increase in serum Ca, Ph, Cu, Fe, uric acid and creatinine levels following Lead toxicity. Meanwhile, serum Zn and IgG levels and AST enzymatic activities were significantly decreased. On the other hand, serum IgM and ALT levels were nonsignificantly decreased in lead group. Combined treatment of lead exposed animals with Turmeric powder had improved immunity without any protective effect against lead toxicity on mineral and kidney functions. The results indicate that administration of lead acetate caused alterations in minerals, immunological factors, liver and kidney functions and Turmeric powder fails to normalize these factors.