Modulatory Role of Folic Acid against Spleen Dysfunctions Induced by Potassium Bromate in Male Rats (Biochemical and Histological Studies)

This study investigated the toxic effects of potassium bromate (KBrO₃) on the spleen of male albino rats and evaluated the protective role of folic acid. Twenty-eight adult male rats (120–130 g) were distributed across four distinct groups (n=7): Group I (control), Group II (folic acid, 2 mg/kg/day), Group III (KBrO₃, 50 mg/kg/day), and Group IV (co-administration of folic acid and KBrO₃) for six weeks. Animals were maintained under controlled conditions (12-hour light/dark cycle). Antioxidant enzymes (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione), immunological markers (CD4, CD8), and trace elements (copper, zinc, phosphorus) were measured in spleen homogenates. KBrO₃ caused significant (P < 0.05) oxidative and immunological toxicity in the spleen, while folic acid treatment markedly reversed these effects, depending upon the dose. These findings suggest that folic acid acts as a potential antioxidant, protecting against KBrO₃-induced spleen toxicity.