Aluminum (Al) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several clinical disorders, such as dialysis dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases. This study investigates the effect of aluminum chloride on brain and liver functions, contents of Fe, Cu and Zn, and antioxidant activities in rats and the effectiveness of riboflavin and vitamin A in alleviating such effects. Therefore, Four equal groups of rats were used (n=10). Group1: received Al (20 mg /kg/day) for 12 weeks. Group 2: received Al and vitamin A (30 IU/g). Group 3: received Al and riboflavin (15 mg/kg). Group 4: was control. Results showed that brain function enzymes were significantly decreased in Al-treated group. Al plus vitamin A or riboflavin alleviates this reduction. Compared to control, Fe concentration was significantly decreased in cerebral and hepatic homogenates in Al and Al plus vitamin A treated groups. The activities of the antioxidant enzymes were significantly reduced in Al-treated group. Al plus vitamin A or riboflavin improved these antioxidant activities. Conclusion: Al exposure induces significant changes in the hepatic and cerebral enzymatic activities, trace element content and antioxidant activities. The incorporation of riboflavin or vitamin A improved hepatic and cerebral functions, suggesting their protective role in aluminum toxicity. |
