Effect of arsenic exposure on MDA, SOD, H2O2 and TNF-α levels of uterus homogenate of female Sparague-Dawleys rats

Abstract

Background and Aim: Arsenic exposure to the body through the oral, dermal, and inhalation routes have a detrimental impact on health, including women’s reproductive health. However, the effect of arsenic exposure through the vulva of women is unclear. The present study therefore examined the effects of long-term arsenic exposure of vulva on uterus inflammation mediated by oxidative stress and inflammatory mechanism. Materials and Methods: Female Rattus norvegicus L was used as the animal model and the arsenic were exposed through vulvar immersion. The arsenic solution was made into four concentrations while the duration of exposure was made in four-time combinations. Uterus inflammation was assessed through histopathological observation of uterus tissue through hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Oxidative stress was assessed using malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); while inflammatory profile was assessed by measuring using tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). Results: Our data suggested that inflammation could occur at the permissible quality standard concentrations when arsenic was exposed for more than two weeks. At higher concentrations and a longer exposure time, arsenic exposure could lead to chronic inflammation. Arsenic exposure was able to increase the levels of MDA and H2O2 and reduced the SOD suggesting stress oxidative of the organ. Arsenic also could increase the level of TNFα at any concentration after 6 and 8 weeks of exposure suggesting the inflammation process in the uterus. Conclusion: Continuous exposure of vulva with arsenic could induce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation of the uterus. Further study to investigate this finding in human is critical as basic to propose health campaign program to the community in the high arsenic regions.