Effect of zinc on weight gain, hematological parameters and tissue structure of the liver, kidney and spleen in albino mice

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effect of varying zinc concentrations on weight gain, hematological parameters, and tissue structure of the liver, kidney, and spleen in albino mice.Methods: The mice were administered daily zinc at 50, 70, and 90 mg/kg body weight. Weight gain was measured every two weeks. Hematological parameters were evaluated after 4 and 8 weeks, while biomolecular parameters were assessed after 8 weeks. Liver, kidney, and spleen were also assessed after 8 weeks using H & E staining procedures.Results: Albino mice exhibited reduced weight gain, and altered hematological parameters after 8 weeks of exposure to varying zinc concentrations, with the highest dose of 90 mg/kg body weight having the most significant impact. Hematological parameters including blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood clotting time, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine transaminase decreased, while bilirubin, urea, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration increased. Liver and kidney tissues exhibited widespread destruction such as necrosis and hemorrhage, while red pulp invaded white pulp activity in the spleen.Conclusion: High levels of zinc from zinc chloride (90 mg/kg) affect body weight, and hematological parameters, as well as liver and kidney histology in albino mice. The most significant negative effects include the potential toxicity and adverse health consequences of excessive zinc intake. Consequently, this study provides the groundwork for investigating natural compounds that inhibit zinc toxicity.