| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2586774 | Food and Chemical Toxicology | 2008 | 7 Pages |
The aim of this study was to determine whether changes in the activities of antioxidant enzymes occur in the brain of lead-exposed rats (300 mgPb/L in drinking water) and to investigate the potential benefit of the administration of some natural antioxidants (Zn 20 mg/L + vitamins A 50.000 U/L, C 2 g/L, E 500 mg/L and B6 500 mg/L) during pregnancy and lactation.Lead exposure caused a significant increase in brain TBARS (23%) vs. control, whereas co-administration of antioxidants + lead was effective in reducing TBARS levels. The catalase activity in brain samples of the lead group was enhanced 99% vs. control, but no changes were found in the remainder of the groups. No statistically significant effect of lead and/or antioxidants in brain SOD activity was noted. Acid phosphatase activity was enhanced in both lead groups but no changes were found in alkaline phosphatase activity. Finally, a statistically significant decrease (−35%) of acetylcholinesterase activity was noted in the lead + antioxidants group. This study provides evidence of the beneficial role of antioxidants in early status of brain development in rats against lead exposure.
