Related Experiment Videos
Effect of subacute dosage of fluoride on male mice
K S Pillai1, A T Mathai, P B Deshmukh
1Jai Research Foundation, Dist Bulsar, Gujarat, India.
Abstract:
A sublethal concentration (one-tenth of the LD50) of fluoride (F) (5.2 mg F/kg body weight) was administered to Swiss albino mice (male) daily for 35 days. These mice showed a decrease in body weight gain, and food and water consumption. A significant decrease in red blood cell counts and an increase in white blood cell counts were seen in fluoride-administered mice. These animals also showed a decline in albumin, total protein, cholesterol, glucose and alkaline phosphatase activity in the serum. The fluoride content significantly increased in different organs of these animals. Sperm did not show any abnormalities due to fluoride toxicity.
Insights
Sublethal fluoride exposure in male mice reduced body weight, food/water intake, and altered blood cell counts. Organ fluoride levels increased, but sperm remained unaffected by this toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Fluoride is a common environmental element with known health effects at high doses.
- Understanding the impact of sublethal fluoride concentrations is crucial for public health risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physiological and biochemical effects of chronic, sublethal fluoride exposure in male Swiss albino mice.
- To assess potential organ accumulation and reproductive toxicity of fluoride.
Main Methods:
- Male Swiss albino mice were administered a sublethal dose of fluoride (5.2 mg F/kg body weight) daily for 35 days.
- Evaluated body weight, food and water consumption, hematological parameters (red and white blood cells), serum biochemistry (albumin, total protein, cholesterol, glucose, alkaline phosphatase), and organ fluoride levels.
- Sperm morphology was examined for abnormalities.
Main Results:
- Mice exhibited decreased body weight gain, reduced food and water consumption.
- Significant alterations in blood parameters were observed: decreased red blood cells and increased white blood cells.
- Serum analysis revealed declines in albumin, total protein, cholesterol, glucose, and alkaline phosphatase activity.
- Fluoride levels were significantly elevated in various organs.
- No abnormalities were detected in sperm morphology.
Conclusions:
- Chronic sublethal fluoride exposure induces significant physiological and biochemical changes in male mice.
- Fluoride accumulates in organs, impacting metabolic and hematological parameters without causing apparent reproductive toxicity in males.
- These findings highlight the systemic toxicity of fluoride even at concentrations below lethal levels.