Chromium-picolinate induced ocular changes: Protective role of ascorbic acid.

Area of Science:

• Ocular toxicology
• Nutritional biochemistry
• Supplement safety

Background:

• Chromium picolinate (Cr-picolinate) is a widely used nutritional supplement.
• Concerns exist regarding its clastogenic potential and safety profile.
• Ocular tissue effects of Cr-picolinate require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess biochemical, histological, and morphological changes in the rat cornea and lens after Cr-picolinate administration.
• To evaluate the potential protective role of Vitamin C against Cr-picolinate induced ocular toxicity.

Main Methods:

• Ninety male Sprague-Dawley rats were used, divided into five groups.
• Treatment groups received Cr-picolinate (0.8 and 1.5 mg/100 g b.w.) alone or with Vitamin C (0.5 mg/100 g b.w.) for 8 weeks.
• Biochemical assays (SOD, GSH, ATPase, MDA), histological examination, and morphological analysis were performed.

Main Results:

• High-dose Cr-picolinate significantly reduced SOD, GSH, and ATPase levels, while increasing MDA.
• Severe morphological and histological damage was observed in the cornea and lens.
• Lens soluble protein and crystalline fractions were altered by Cr-picolinate exposure.
• Vitamin C supplementation largely reversed these detrimental effects.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged oral consumption of Cr-picolinate can induce significant ocular toxicity, affecting both cornea and lens.
• Cr-picolinate exposure leads to oxidative stress and disrupts ocular tissue integrity.
• Vitamin C supplementation shows promise in mitigating Cr-picolinate-induced ocular damage.