Influence of ginger [Zingiber officinales Rosc] on chronic toxicity induced by the organophosphorus insecticide "chlorpyrifos" in laying hens

ABSTRACT

Pesticides may induce toxic symptoms and alteration of most blood enzymes in experimental animals. Ginger rhizome [Zingiber officinales] is one, of the best known spices, which has also been universally used throughout history for its health benefits. For evaluation of the toxic effect of subchronic exposure to chlorpyifos, the protective effect of ginger rhizome, an indigenous medicinal plant was studied through estimation of different blood parameters at different time intervals. These blood parameters are the red blood cells [RBCs] and plasma cholinesterase activity, liver and kidney functions, level of cholesterol and triglycerides as well as the main metabolites of chlorpyrifos in laying hens. Administration of diet contaminated by chlorpyrifos at a dose of 40 ppm for two months followed by one month recovery period led to a slight inhibition of RBC and plasma cholinesterase and significantly increased the activity of liver enzymes, namely alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST], alkaline phosphatase [ALP] activities. Total protein and albumin were slightly decreased and serum creatinine and blood urea were significantly increased. Cholesterol and triglycerides were slightly increased. The main metabolites detected in the extracts of eggs and different organs of laying hens were 3, 5, 6-Trichloro-2-hydroxypyridine, chlorpyrifos oxon, desethyl chlorpyrifos and desethyl chlorpyrifos oxon, in addition to the parent compound, which were identified and confirmed by tic and hplc. Feeding hens on a diet containing dursban at a dose of 40 ppm and Zingiber officinales Rose [ginger 1%, w/w], significantly ameliorate the toxic effect of chlorpyrifos. This results indicate the possible chemoperventive action of ginger and emphasize the potential of natural plant products as chemopreventive agents