Microscopic study of potential toxic effects of monosodium glutamate on liver of chicken embryos aged 16 days

Abstract

Background: This experimental study aimed to determine the changes caused by monosodium glutamate (MSG) on morphology and histology of liver of chicken embryos aged 16 days of incubation. In this research, 50 fertilized eggs were used. They were divided into two equal groups, one group was used as control with normal liver structure, while the other group (MSG) was treated with MSG in 0 day of incubation (0.1ml/egg). Results: The results showed many harmful effects on hepatic cells, blood sinusoids, and bile ducts in MSG group. These changes included alterations in nuclei conformation and nuclear envelope. Chromatin distribution was associated with increased electronic intensity. Also, there were rupture in smooth endoplasm systems and malfunction of mitochondria and Golgi apparatus, with increased lysosomes and lipid droplets. Conclusions: This study concluded that MSG had severe toxic effects on liver structure if it was given in pre-conception period as this period is considered critical for liver growth (organogenesis).