The hepatoprotective effect of β-carotene against cadmium toxicity in rats

Abstract

The present study was carried out to investigate the potential protective effect of β-carotene against cadmium (Cd) induced hepatotoxicity. Male albino rats were used in the present experiments and divided into three groups. First group served as control, second group injected with CdCl2 (sc) at dose level of 2.5 mg k-1 b.wt. and third group injected intramuscularly with β-carotene (10 mg kg-1 'b.wt.) and CdCl2 (sc). The injections were 3 times weekly for 6 weeks. Results obtained showed that CdCl2 significantly (p<0.01) elevated blood hydroperoxide, AST (Aspartate amino transferase), ALT (Alanine amino transferase), ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase), cholesterol and hepatic cadmium levels. The results demonstrated the beneficial influences of β-carotene in reducing the harmful effects of CdCl2. © 2008 Academic Journals Inc.