The Effects of High Copper and Zinc on Some Hematological Parameters in Rats

Authors: SEBAHAT AYDEMİR, MUKADDES ÖZCAN

Abstract: The effect of high levels of Zn and Cu supplemented into the diet on Zn and Cu levels in the liver, pancreas and serum, the number of red and white blood cells, hematocrit value, hemoglobin levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in red blood cells, live weight, and liver and pancreas weights were investigated. A total of 77 Wistar albino rats were used as the research material. Twelve of the rats were separated as the control group and the remaining 65 were divided into five experimental groups (D1, D2, D3, D4 and D5) with 13 rats in each. Then, 70 mg/kg/day Zn, 80 mg/kg/day Zn, 10 mg/kg/day Cu and 20 mg/kg/day Cu were added to the water of the experimental D1, D2, D3 and D4 groups respectively for four weeks; 70 mg/kg/day Zn and 10 mg/kg/day Cu were added to the water of the D5 group. Control group rats (K) were given only drinking water. In the present study, it has been determined that while the high levels of Zn had no effect on the number of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin levels, hematocrit value or Zn and Cu levels in the serum and liver, they decreased erythrocyte SOD activity and increased liver weight. High levels of Cu had no effect on the number of red and white blood cells and Zn levels in the serum and liver. However, they decreased the levels of Zn and Cu in the pancreas and erythrocyte SOD activity while increasing liver weight and serum Cu levels. It has been determined that high levels of Zn and Cu caused an increase in serum Cu level pancreas weight whereas they decreased the Cu levels in the pancreas.

Keywords: Zn, Cu, hematological parameters, rat

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