Light and electron microscopic study on the effect of malathion on the adrenal gland of adult male albino rat and the possible protective role of vitamin [C]

ABSTRACT

Malathion is one of the organophosphorus insecticides widely used in agricultural and household applications to control pests. Actually, the studies of the effect of malathion on the adrenal%land are still limited, Vitamin C is the major water soluble antioxidant and free radical scavenger within the body. The aim of the work is to study the effect of chronic exposure to malathion on the adrenal gland. We also aim to study the possible protective effect of vitamin C in attenuating the nossible malathion induced changes. A total number of 30 adult male albino rats aged three months was used in the present study. Rats were randomly divided into three groups l The first group [GI] 10 rats were used as control 2- The second group [GH] 10 animals were used as malathion treated group. 3- The third group [GUI] 10 rats were used as malathion/vitamin C treated group. Commercial malathion was used, dissolved in distilled water and given orally by intragastric tube in a dose of 100 mg/kg/dayfor 2 months. Vitamin C was given orally by intragastric tube in a dose of 20 mg/WOgm/day for 2 months. After two months, the animals of the three groups were anaesthetized with ether inhalation and the suprarenal glands were dissected out and processed for light and electron microscopic examination. In malathion treated rats, there was cellulae disturbance in the arrangement of the adrenal gland. The cells of the cortex and medulla, showed irregular nuclei and apparent increase in the cytoplasmic vacuolation. Cortical and medullary blood capillaries were dilated and engorged with blood. Immunohistochemical staining for Caspase-3, showed many caspase-3 positive cells in the cortex and medulla. Ultrastructurally, degenerative changes were observed in the cortical and medullary cells in the form of cytoplasmic vacuolation, mitochondria! degeneration and increased lipid droplets. These changes were partially resolved by coadministration of vitamin C. Malathion had a harmful effect on adrenal gland so, it leads to impairment of its function in producing various hormones. This effect could be partially resolved, by concomitant administration of vitamin [C]. So, it is advisable to give vitamin [C] to those exposed to malathion