Hepatotoxicity induced by the herbicide atrazine in the rat

The hepatotoxicity of atrazine was investigated by studying clinical parameters related to hepatic function and by electron microscopy. Three groups to male albino rats (Wistar strain) received 100, 200 and 400 mg of atrazine/per kg of body weight/per day, for 14 days. One group received 600 mg atrazine/per kg of body weight/per day, for 7 days. At termination of dosing, the animals were sacrificed and blood was drawn for the determination of serum total lipids, glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (SAP). A dose dependent decrease in serum glucose concentration was observed in all the groups. In contrast, a dose relate increase in total serum lipids, was apparent at all dose levels studied. Activity of serum ALT and SAP increased approximately 60% and 200% respectively in rats given 600 mg atrazine/kg bw for 7 days. The liver was examined grossly and microscopically. Electron microscopy disclosed no changes in the hepatocytes of rats treated with the low dose (100 mg/kg bw). At high doses, electron microscopy revealed hepatocytic proliferation and degeneration of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, lipid accumulation and alteration of bile canaliculi proportional to dose and duration of treatment.