Histochemical Study on Lead Acetate Induced Nephrotoxicity and Amelioration with Moringa olifera in Pregnant Rats

Background: Lead acetate exposure is associated with alterations in renal structure and function. This study examined renal changes during gestation and lactation and their amelioration following concurrent administration of Moringa oleifera. Aims: To evaluate lead acetate-induced histochemical alterations and the protective potential of Moringa oleifera against nephrotoxicity in pregnant rats. Study Design: Eighteen pregnant Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6): Group I (control), Group II (lead acetate-treated) and Group III (lead acetate plus Moringa oleifera-treated). Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University (NDVSU), Jabalpur. The experimental treatment was carried out from gestation day 5 to postnatal day 21. Methodology: Lead acetate was administered at 0.8% in drinking water, while Moringa oleifera was administered at 400 mg/kg body weight. Body weight, haematological and serum biochemical parameters, blood and renal lead concentrations, and mineral profile were evaluated. Renal tissues were examined for histopathological alterations, enzyme histochemistry for acid and alkaline phosphatase activities and immunohistochemical expression of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). Results: Lead acetate exposure significantly reduced body weight gain, haemoglobin concentration, erythrocyte count and packed cell volume, while increasing serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. Total protein and essential minerals, including calcium, copper, zinc and iron, were decreased, whereas blood and renal lead concentrations were markedly elevated. Reduced litter size and increased pup mortality were also observed. Enzyme histochemistry revealed increased acid phosphatase activity and altered alkaline phosphatase activity. Histopathological examination of renal tissues revealed tubular degeneration, congestion, lymphocytic infiltration, tubular dilatation, eosinophilic casts, brush border disruption, mesangial expansion and amyloid deposition, along with increased KIM-1 expression. Concurrent administration of Moringa oleifera significantly ameliorated these alterations, although complete restoration was not achieved. Conclusion: Lead acetate induces marked haematological, biochemical, histochemical and pathological alterations in pregnant rats, indicating significant nephrotoxicity. Moringa oleifera exhibited a significant protective and ameliorative effect against lead-induced renal damage, although its effects were not sufficient for complete restoration of normal renal architecture and function.