The effect of zeolite on acute lead toxicity in male rats

Abstract Background Lead is a well-documented toxic metal, historically recognized for its deleterious effects on human health. It is predominantly absorbed via the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, resulting in clinical symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, irritability, and anemia. Although chelation therapy is the primary treatment for heavy metal poisoning, its limitations necessitate the exploration of alternative chelating agents. Purpose This study aimed to assess the efficacy of natural zeolite as a chelating agent in mitigating lead adsorption and accumulation. Materials and Methods Male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: control, lead acetate, lead acetate + zeolite, and zeolite. The subjects received daily oral doses of lead acetate (1000 mg/kg) and zeolite (500 mg/kg) over a 3-day period. On Day 7, blood lead concentrations were quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Biochemical parameters were evaluated in blood serum, and histopathological changes were examined. Results The quantitative spectroanalytical analysis demonstrated that natural zeolite possesses a significant adsorption capacity. Furthermore, in vivo results indicated that the co-administration of natural zeolite with lead acetate significantly decreased blood lead levels. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were reduced from 63.00 to 48.25 IU/L (P < .05), and from 312.33 to 200.75 IU/L (P < .001), respectively. Histopathological evaluations of the liver and kidneys corroborated the protective effect of zeolite, revealing diminished inflammation, necrosis, and degeneration in the zeolite-treated groups. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that zeolite effectively reduces blood lead levels and may serve as a viable chelating agent.