Liver And Kidney Dysfunction In Wistar Rats Exposed To Municipal Landfill Leachate

    August 2012 in “ Resources and Environment ”
    Chibuisi G. Alimba, Adekunle A. Bakare, Oluwasanmi Olayinka Aina
    TLDR Landfill leachate harms liver and kidneys in rats, posing health risks.
    The study investigated the effects of landfill leachate from Olusosun and Aba-Eku landfills on Wistar albino rats, revealing significant hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects. Rats exposed to 1-25% concentrations of leachate showed clinical signs of toxicity, including hair loss and reduced activity. There was a concentration-dependent decrease in body weight and an increase in liver and kidney weight. Biochemical analysis showed increased levels of AST, ALT, urea, and creatinine, with decreased albumin and total proteins, exhibiting sexual dimorphisms. Histopathological examination revealed liver and kidney damage, including hepatocyte degeneration and renal tubule necrosis. The leachate contained heavy metals and anions above permissible limits, suggesting potential health risks to animals and humans exposed to landfill chemicals.
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