Ameliorative effect of vitamin E on copper sulfate-induced liver damage in Wistar rats

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Significant human exposure to heavy metals such as copper sulfate is a major health concern due to its adverse consequences to body tissue. Vitamin E, a potent anti-oxidant is being investigated for its potential to protect against heavy metal toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the role of vitamin E on copper sulfate-induced liver damage. METHOD: Twenty-five (25) adult Wistar rats weighing between 160g and 220g were divided equally into five groups (A to E). They received 1 ml of distilled water, 200 mg/kg of copper sulfate for 30 days, 200 mg/kg of vitamin E for 30 days, 200 mg/kg of copper sulfate for 30 days followed by 200 mg/kg of vitamin E for 30 days, 200 mg/kg of copper sulfate for 30 days followed by 1 ml of distilled water for 30 days. At the end of the study, blood and liver tissues were collected for analysis of serum Alanine aminotransaminase(ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase(AST), Alkaline Phosphatase(ALP), Total protein(TP), Total bilirubin(TB), Conjugated bilirubin(CB), liver Malondialdehyde(MDA), Superoxide dismutase(SOD), Catalase(CAT), Glutathione Peroxidase(GPx) and histology of the liver. RESULTS: There was significant increase in in ALT, AST, ALP, TB, CB, liver MDA and a significant decrease in TP, liver SOD, CAT, and GPx in copper sulfate treated rats when compared to control which were reversed with vitamin E treatment. Histological findings showed a reversal of vascular stenosis and inflammation induced by copper sulfate following co-treatment with vitamin E. CONCLUSION: Vitamin E possesses ant-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties against copper-induced liver damage.