This study is designed to investigate the hepatotoxic effect of copper sulphate and cobalt chloride, which
are used as feed additives. One hundred rats classified to five groups. First group used as control; second
and third groups were given 1/10 and 1/5 LD50 of CuSo4 respectively, fourth and fifth groups were given
1/10 and 1/5 LD50 of CoCl2 respectively (orally via stomach tube). Body weight was measured weekly.
Serum samples used for detection of liver functions. Liver tissue was homogenized for detection of
oxidative stress (Reduced glutathione (GSH), Glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and maloneldehyde
MDA)). Histopathological examination was performed in liver tissue. Results showed increase level of
serum Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartat aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (AP),
gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and MDA. Decrease level of GSH and GST was detected. It can be
concluded that ingestion of copper and cobalt in high doses has hepatotoxic effect on albino rats.
Key words: cobalt hepatotoxicity- copper hepatotoxicity- liver enzymes- oxidative stress- heavy metals. |
