Electron microscopic study of the effect of Aflatoxin B1 on the kidney: an experimental study

ABSTRACT

Aflatoxin Bl is the most toxic among aflatoxins which are secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus. It is best known as hepatocarcinogen although other organs affection was found. To study the possible toxic effect of aflatoxin Bl on the kidney at the ultrastructural level, six groups of adult ad-libidum albino rats were used. The first group served as control and the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth groups received a single oral dose of aflatoxin Bl by gavage at doses of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 micro gm/kg body weight respectively. Electron microscopic changes were only discovered in the last group. Cortical changes included cellular degenerative changes indicated by fragmented nuclei and infiltration with inflammatory cells namely lymphocytes and neutrophils. Proliferation of mesangeal cells was also noted. Changes in proximal convoluted tubules included degenerative changes in the epithelial lining cells manifested by pyknotic nuclei and mitochondrial degeneration with swollen and disrupted cristae. Lysosomes and cytoplasmic vacuoles appeared increased. Apical degeneration with partial loss of microvilli was noted and the cellular contents were partially evacuated into the lumen. Changes in the distal convoluted tubules included apical degeneration of epithelial lining cells and degenerative changes in some basal mitochondria. The results suggest the toxic effect of aflatoxin Bl on the kidney. Recommendation of proper eradication of Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus and their toxins from all sources of the food was offered