Effect of ciprofloxacin and vitamin C on immunotoxicity biomarkers and mesenteric lymph nodes in a rat model

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) has been associated with various adverse effects, including potential toxicity to the immune system. This study investigates the immunotoxic effects of Cipro and examines the possible protective role of vitamin C (VitC) using rats. Although rats can synthesize VitC, they serve as a relevant model for evaluating drug effects and immune responses due to their physiological and immunological similarities to humans. A total of 40 rats were divided into four groups (n = 10). The Cipro group received 750 mg/kg of Cipro orally each day for five days. The VitC-Cipro group was administered 200 mg/kg of VitC orally one hour prior to receiving Cipro daily for five days. The VitC group received the same dose of VitC, while the Control group was given 0.9% normal saline daily for five days. Levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were measured in serum. Histopathological examinations of mesenteric lymph nodes were also conducted. The Cipro group exhibited significantly lower levels of IL-4 compared to all other groups (P < 0.05). Similarly, INF-γ levels were significantly reduced in the Cipro group compared to the VitC-Cipro group (P < 0.05) and the Control group (P < 0.01). No significant differences in IL-10 levels were observed among the groups (P > 0.05). Histological analysis revealed degenerative changes in the lymph nodes of the Cipro group, characterized by a moth-eaten appearance, tingible body macrophages, localized hemorrhage, and reactive eosinophilia. Tissue sections from the VitC-Cipro group showed a reduced number of lymphocytes with uneven distribution in the paracortex reticular tissue. These alterations in interleukin levels and lymph node histology may indicate ciprofloxacin-induced immunotoxicity. Furthermore, the ameliorative effects of VitC against Cipro toxicity suggest its potential utility in cases of antibiotic overdose.