Chromium toxicity and oxidative stress in broiler chicks and its amelioration with vitamin E and bentonite

Abstract

This experiment utilized 140 one-day-old broiler chickens. Group 1 served as control. Birds of groups 2, 5, 6 and 7 were administered chromium (Potassium dichromate, K2Cr2O7; Cr6+) @ 270 mg/kg through the feed. Groups 3, 5 and 7 received vitamin E (150 mg/kg) and groups 4, 6 and 7 received bentonite (5% of feed), respectively. Cr-treated birds were dull and depressed and gained significantly less body weight gain and increased feed conversion ratio (FCR). All the birds treated with Cr (group 2) showed a significant decrease in hematological parameters at day 21 and 42. Biochemical parameters i.e. total protein, albumin and globulin were decreased while ALT, AST, urea and creatinie were increased at day 21 and 42. Birds treated with Cr (group 2) showed a significant decrease in total antioxidant activity and catalase, while malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant status levels were increased at days 21 and 42. Co-administration of bentonite along with Cr resulted in partial amelioration (group 6) as compared to groups 5 and 7 administered chromium + vitamin E and chromium + vitamin E + bentonite, respectively. Highest concentration of Cr was determined in Cr treated birds (group 2) followed by groups 2, 6, 5 and 7 at 21 and 42 experimental days. It was concluded that Cr leads to oxidative stress in broilers. Vitamin E and bentonite partially ameliorated Cr toxicity. The combination of vitamin E and bentonite is promising in combating Cr toxicity effects.