Zinc antioxidant properties, cortisol and triiodothyronine modulation prevent oxidative stress caused by copper and lead in prepubertal male Wistar rats.

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the potentials of zinc on serum antioxidant and oxidative markers in prepubertal male Wistar rats exposed to copper and lead. Methodology: Thirty-six prepubertal male Wistar rats were randomized into six groups (n=6): tap water (control), Zinc chloride (Zn), copper II sulphate (Cu), lead acetate (Pb), Zn + Cu, and Zn + Pb respectively. Serum antioxidants, oxidant markers, cortisol, and triiodothyronine levels were evaluated. Results: Exposure to Cu and Pb decreased (p<0.05) catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities, total sulfhydryl, total antioxidant capacity, and triiodothyronine levels while significant increases were observed in myeloperoxidase activity, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, total oxidant capacity, and cortisol levels. Co-administration of Zn with Cu and Pb respectively significantly reverse reduced serum antioxidants and increased oxidative markers. Conclusion: The zinc supplementation prevents oxidative stress in prepubertal male Wistar rats exposed to high levels of copper and lead in drinking water via its antioxidant properties and modulation of cortisol and triiodothyronine.