Protective role of nigella sativa oil and vitamins C and E against aflatoxin M1-induced hematology and hepatic toxicity in neonatal rats

Abstract

This study explores the protective efficacy of Nigella sativa oil (NSO), Vitamin C, and E in countering the toxic effects of Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in neonatal Wistar rats. A total of 117 neonatal rats were randomized into 13 groups (A–M) and observed over 12 weeks. Group A served as the control, while the remaining groups were exposed to varying concentrations of AFM1, either alone or in combination with the supplements. Hematological parameters, including Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Hemoglobin (HB), White Blood Cells (WBC), and liver enzyme activities, were measured using Microhematocrit Reader, Hemocytometer, Hemoglobinometer, and Spectrophotometer respectively. Histopathological assessments of liver tissues were conducted using staining techniques to assess cellular damage, inflammation, and fibrosis. The results demonstrated that simultaneous supplementation with NSO, Vitamin C, and E significantly improved PCV, HB, and RBC levels while reducing WBC counts and liver enzyme activities in comparison to AFM1-exposed groups. Notably, NSO effectively restored hematological parameters and facilitated liver tissue regeneration, even at higher concentrations of AFM1. In contrast, Vitamins C and E displayed protective effects predominantly at lower toxin levels. These findings suggest that NSO, in conjunction with Vitamin C and E, plays a pivotal role in mitigating the detrimental effects of AFM1 toxicity. NSO shows superior potential in reversing blood dyscrasia and liver damage. The study highlights the promising therapeutic utility of Nigella sativa oil as a natural remedy for alleviating aflatoxin-induced oxidative stress and organ damage, reinforcing its potential to safeguard public health against aflatoxin exposure.