Effects of Mulberry Leaf Powder Supplementation on Lead Status and Minerals content in Pb-administered Rats

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to investigate the effects of mulberry leaf powder supplementation on lead (Pb) status and mineral (Ca, Fe, Cu and Zn) content in Pb-administered rats for 4 weeks. Thirty two male rats were divided into 4 groups: a control, Pb, Pb5M (500 ppm Pb + 5% mulberry leaf powder), and Pb10M (500 ppm Pb + 10% mulberry leaf powder). There were no significant differences in food intake and initial body weight among groups. Mulberry leaf powder treatments showed significant decreases in food efficiency ratio and body weight gain. But FER of Pb5M% and Pb10M were significantly increases than that of Pb group. The levels of serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and creatinine were decreased by mulberry leaf powder treatment. Minerals content of liver and kidney were significantly decreased in the Pb groups than that of control group. Whereas, fecal minerals content were significantly increased in the Pb5M and Pb10M than those of control group. Pb content of serum, liver and kidney was significantly increased in the Pb group than those of control group. However, by mulberry leaf powder administration (Pb5M and Pb10M), Pb level of serum, liver and kidney were lowered than that of Pb group. And fecal Pb excretion was significantly increased in the Pb5M and Pb10M than that of Pb group. These results showed mulberry leaves were effective for lowing Pb accumulation in serum, organs, which may have potential to prevent Pb toxicity.