Protective role of calcium in lead toxicity during development of chick embryo

In the present study the interaction of lead (Pb) and calcium (Ca) during embryogenesis was investigated. Lead (50 micrograms) alone and in combination with Ca (100 micrograms, 500 micrograms and 1000 micrograms) was injected on seventh day of incubation into the yolk sac of developing chick embryos. Treatment with lead alone caused stunted growth in chick embryos with several deformities e.g. defective beak and legs, hydrocephalus, microphthalmia and anophthalmia. The combined treatment of Pb with Ca showed a remarkable protective effect against lead induced deformities characterized by development of chick embryos with a low incidence of deformities.