Biochemical effects of some natural chelating agents decreasing lead toxicity

Lead was determined in River Nile water and tap water in different localities of Great Cairo. The results revealed a high degree of lead pollution. In an attempt to reduce the biochemical effect of lead poisoning, 2% pectin or 2% chitin were incorporated in the rat diet given 200 ppm pb [as lead acetate] in drinking water. Four groups of rats were used [each group 10 rats] and the experiment was conducted for 42 days. Regarding lead content in different organs and blood, a net decrease occurred by pectin or chitin addition to the diet. In case of pectin addition, lead content in liver, kidney, brain and blood decreased by 38.3, 46.4, 24.05 and 12.1% respectively as compared with rat given 200 ppm Pb in drinking wafer. In case of chitin addition a similar trend was observed. Glutathion content significantly decreased in liver, kidney and blood by pectin or chitin addition. Got, GPT, alkaline phosphatase activities, haemoglobin and hematocrite values were close to those of controls. Statistical analysis was also carried out on the above results