Hepatotoxicity of Chromium In Rabbits

Abstract

Chromium (Cr), a trace element is considered vital for many metabolic functions in the body whereas several studies have revealed that certain chromium compounds are not safe for human body. The present study was designed to see the effects of chromium citrate on SGPT. SGOT, Serum Glucose, Serum Protein and Serum Bilirubin (LFTs - Liver Function Tests) in three groups of rabbits of either sex for 21 days. Prior to drug administration the above Parameters ere measured in blood. Later 3, 10 and 34mg/kg body weight of chromium citrate was given to each group of rabbits orally daily for the whole period of study. The blood samples were drawn on 0.08,7,14 and 21 day intervals for the measurement of above Parameters. The results exhibited that SGPT levels in rabbits did not change significantly when either of the three doses of Cr citrate were administered to the animals. However, 3 and 30mg doses of Cr citrate decreased the levels of SGPT after 14 days of therapy. Moreover 30 mg of Cr citrate dose showed a decrease in the levels of SCPT after 21 days of therapy. No significant change was observed during the study period when SGOT levels were observed. Contrarily 10mg dose of Chromium citrate decreased the levels of SCOT after 0.08 and I day of therapy while 30mg dose raised the SCOT after me week of therapy. With the highest dose the glucose Level decreased more markedly than with the other two doses of Chromium citrate. The decreasing Pattern in the serum protein levels was only observed in the initial study period (2 and 24 hours) past administration of 3 different doses of Cr citrate, after which a normalizing trend followed till the end of the study. Serum Bilirubin levels showed a constant decrease in the whole studs’ period with the three drug doses. The data was subjected to student’s t-test for statistical analysis. A more detailed studs’ to investigate the effects on other vital organs is Suggested to Study the safety of Cr citrate.