Crocin “saffron” protects against beryllium chloride toxicity in rats through diminution of oxidative stress and enhancing gene expression of antioxidant enzymes

Beryllium chloride (BeCl2) is a highly toxic substance that accumulates in different tissues after absorption. The purpose of this study was to investigate protective role of crocin against BeCl2-intoxication in rats. Male Wistar rats were used in this study and categorised into four groups (n=8). Group I served as normal control rats. Group II treated orally with BeCl2 86 mg/kg b.w. for five consecutive days. This dose was equivalent to experimental LD50. Group III treated intraperitoneally with crocin 200 mg/kg b.w. for seven consecutive days. Group IV received crocin for seven consecutive days before BeCl2 administration. Blood samples and liver and brain homogenates were obtained for haematological, biochemical and RT-PCR examinations. The haematocrit value, RBCs count and haemoglobin concentration were significantly decreased in BeCl2-treated rats. A significant increase was observed in rat liver and brain malondialdehyde level and protein carbonyls content in BeCl2 exposed group compared to the control group, and these values were significantly declined upon administration of crocin. Lactate dehydrogenase levels in rat liver and brain significantly increased compared to the control group and was associated with significant decrease in catalase and superoxide dismutase activities. Reduced glutathione hepatic contents of BeCl2-treated rats were significantly decreased. There was significant decline in mRNA expression of catalase and superoxide dismutase genes in BeCl2-intoxicated rats compared to the normal rats. Crocin treatment prior to BeCl2 intake resulted in significant increase in mRNA expressions of catalase and superoxide dismutase genes near to normalcy. The haematological and biochemical parameters were restored near to normal levels. Our results suggested that, BeCl2 induced oxidation of cellular lipids and proteins and that administration of crocin reduced BeCl2-induced oxidative stress combined with initiation of mRNA expression of antioxidant genes.

► Haematological parameters significantly decreased in BeCl2-treated rats.
► Malondialdehyde and protein carbonyls decreased in BeCl2-treated rats.
► Lactate dehydrogenase, catalase and superoxide dismutase decreased after BeCl2.
► mRNA expression of antioxidant enzymes declined after BeCl2 intake.
► Crocin protects against BeCl2-intoxication in rats.