Lead-induced oxidative damage in rats/mice: A meta-analysis
Yongsheng Fan1, Xue Zhao1, Jun Yu1
1Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, DongHu Road 115, Wuhan 430071, China.
Summary
Lead exposure significantly increases oxidative stress markers and decreases antioxidants in rodents. Mice are more sensitive than rats, and testicular tissue is particularly vulnerable to lead toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Biochemistry
- Oxidative Stress Research
Background:
- Lead (Pb) is a ubiquitous environmental genotoxic metal.
- Pb accumulation in the body is known to induce oxidative stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the extent of oxidative damage induced by lead in rats and mice.
- To provide scientific evidence for preventing and treating lead toxicity.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 108 eligible articles in English or Chinese.
- Data retrieved from Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, CNKI, and CBM databases.
- Evaluation of oxidative stress indicators including malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant enzymes like catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD).
Main Results:
- Lead exposure significantly increased oxidants (MDA, GSSG, ROS, H2O2) and decreased antioxidants (CAT, GPx, GR, GSH, SOD, GST).
- Intraperitoneal administration was more effective than water drinking in reducing antioxidant levels.
- Mice exhibited higher sensitivity to lead-induced oxidative stress compared to rats.
Conclusions:
- Lead exposure causes significant oxidative damage, with mice being more susceptible than rats.
- Intraperitoneal administration is an effective intervention for mitigating lead toxicity.
- Testicular tissue is particularly vulnerable to lead-induced oxidative damage, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
