Toxic Trace Metals and Pathological Changes in Organs of Rats Fed with Extract of Polluted Grasses
TLDR Eating plants from polluted areas can cause liver and kidney damage in rats due to toxic metals.
The study, conducted on 30 Wistar rats divided into three groups of 10, examined the effects of consuming grass extracts contaminated with trace metals from areas near mining industries. The rats displayed clinical signs of toxicity, such as hair loss, pale ears, skin irritation, and reduced fluid intake. Trace metal analysis showed high concentrations, particularly of Zn, Cu, Mn, and As, with the spleen showing the highest accumulation. Pathological changes were observed in the kidney glomeruli, and liver enzyme activities indicated potential liver damage. The study concluded that consumption of plants from polluted sites can lead to organ dysfunction and damage, especially in the liver and kidneys, due to bioaccumulation of trace metals. The presence of trace metals in control rats was linked to their standard diet and tap water, suggesting a wider environmental issue. The study highlights the health risks associated with consuming materials from polluted areas and discourages such practices.
