ABSTRACT
Chlorpyrifos [CPF] is one of the most potent broad spectrum organophosphates [OP] used frequently against cockroaches and other structural pests. Repeated exposure to chlorpyrifos may endanger general population with resultant toxic effect on many organs. This work was carried out to ascertain the toxic effect of low and high doses of CPF on the rat liver and kidney. Moreover the possible protective role of zinc was evaluated. The study was conducted on 70 adult male albino rats divided into 7 equal groups. Group I: control group. Group II: animals received distilled water. Group III: animals received zinc sulfate. Group IV: animals received low dose of CPF. Group V: animals received high dose of CPF. Group VI: animals received zinc sulfate and low dose of CPF. Group VII: animals received zinc sulfate and high dose of CPF. The duration of the study was 8 weeks then hepatic and renal profiles, plasma zinc, Cu and oxidative stress parameters [GSH and GSSG] were measured. Liver and kidney sections were prepared for histological examination. The obtained biochemical and histological results revealed hepatic and renal toxic effects induced by CPF in a dose dependant manner. Zinc administration resulted in remarkable protective effect on biochemical and histological levels