Stone quarrying induces organ dysfunction and oxidative stress in Meriones libycus

Exposure to heavy metal-containing dust arising from stone quarrying may cause severe health problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of stone quarrying in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) on the Libyan jird Meriones libycus. Soil samples and jirds were collected from four sites located at different distances from the quarrying area. Soil from the first (500 m away from the quarry) and second (1800 m away) sites showed a significant increase in cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and vanadium (V) when compared with the reference site (38,000 m away). Jirds at these sites exhibited significant increases in liver, kidney, lung, and fur levels of Cd, Pb, Ni, and V. Serum transaminases, creatinine, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly increased in jirds, whereas reduced glutathione (GSH) levels decreased. Liver, kidney, and lung tissues of jirds, collected from the first and second sites, showed significantly increased MDA and decreased GSH levels. Additionally, animals at both sites showed altered hematological parameters and several histopathological changes in their liver, kidney, and lung. Soil and animals at the third site (7300 m away) showed no significant changes. Thus, our study showed the impact and hazardous effects of quarrying on the liver, kidney, lung, and hemogram of M. libycus. These findings can provide scientific evaluation for studying the impact of quarrying on the workers and communities living close to the studied area.