Effect of various selenium doses on chromium(IV)-induced nephrotoxicity in a male chicken model

Our study aimed to explore whether Na₂SeO₃ (Se) can alleviate the nephrotoxicity induced by K₂Cr₂O₇ [Cr(VI)]. One hundred and five male chickens were randomly divided into seven groups with 15 chickens each group: The 6 experimental groups received K₂Cr₂O₇ alone or in combination with 0.31, 0.63, 1.25, 2.50, and 5.00 mg/kg for 42 days, respectively, while control group was treated with equivalent water. Exposure to Cr(VI) significantly increased MDA contents and organ coefficient, whereas decreased T-SOD activities, Ca²⁺-ATPase activities, mitochondrial membrane potential and GSH contents, and histological studies demonstrated renal damage. Above indicators were restored by Se supplement (0.31, 0.63, and 1.25 mg/kg), in which supplement with 0.63 mg/kg Se developed more effectively than the other two groups; on the contrary, in the groups of Se supplement with 2.50 and 5.00 mg/kg, the above indicators were not ameliorated and even exacerbated. This study demonstrated that Cr(VI) can result in kidney oxidative damage in male chickens, and Se of certain dose has the protective effects against Cr(VI)-induced nephrptoxicity.