Di-Ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a global environmental pollutant. DEHP is ingested by people through environmental sources. Both community exposure (food, air, and water) and exposure in hospital settings have a significant impact on human health. DEHP had been reported to have cytotoxic, immunotoxic, genotoxic, and reproductive toxic properties. This study uses bodyweight and relative lung weight measurements to investigate the potential harmful effects of DEHP on the adult albino rats' lungs and the potential protective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Utilizing biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical techniques, the toxicity of DHEP is evaluated. Fifty male adult albino rats were divided into five equal groups as follows: Group Ι (Negative control group), Group ΙΙ (Positive control group), Group IΙΙ (NAC-treated group): was given NAC orally (200 mg/kg/day), Group IV (DEHP-treated group): was given DEHP orally (3gm/kg once daily for 4 weeks) and Group V: (DEHP + NAC-treated group): was treated with DEHP concomitantly with NAC at the same previous doses. The present study's findings showed that DEHP has significantly increased the lipid peroxidation level and significantly reduced glutathione content (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and catalase activity. The inter-alveolar septal thickness, bleeding, and inflammatory cellular infiltration of the lungs seen in group IV's histological results were significantly diminished in group V. Also, group V, compared to group IV, exhibited a significant reduction in the accumulation of collagen fibres and caspase-3 expression. Conclusion: By reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, NAC therapy can defend against DEHP-induced lung damage in rats. |
