Melatonin counteracts polyethylene microplastics induced adreno-cortical damage in male albino rats

There are various substances that can disrupt the homeostatic mechanisms of the body, defined as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The persistent nature of microplastics (MPs) is a cause for concern due to their ability to accumulate in food chains and widespread use, making their toxic effects particularly alarming. The potential of MPs for disrupting the endocrine system was observed in multiple tissues. Moreover, the adrenal gland is known to be extremely sensitive to EDCs, while with the effect of MPs on the adrenal gland has not previously been studied. This study aimed to highlight the potential polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) induced adreno-toxic effects rather than exploring the implicated mechanisms and concluding if melatonin (Mel) can afford protection against PE-MPs induced adreno-toxicity. To fulfill the goal, six groups of rats were used; control, Mel, PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg), PE-MPs (15 mg/kg), PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg) +Mel, and PE-MPs (15 mg/kg) +Mel. PE-MPs induced toxic changes in the adrenal cortex, which was evident by increased adrenal weight, histopathological examination, and ultrastructural changes detected by electron microscope. A reduction in serum cortisol and an increase in serum adrenocorticotropic hormone resulted from the adreno-toxic effects of PE-MPs. Mechanisms may include the reduction of steroidogenesis-related genes, as PE-MPs drastically reduce mRNA levels of StAR, Nr0b1, Cyp11A1, as well as Cyp11B1. Also, oxidative stress that results from PE-MPs is associated with higher rates of lipid peroxidation and decreased superoxide dismutase and glutathione. PE-MPs inflammatory effect was illustrated by elevated expression of IL-1β and NF-ķB, detected by immunohistochemical staining, in addition to increased expression of caspase-3 and mRNA of Bax, markers of proapoptotic activity. The impacts of PE-MPs were relatively dose-related, with the higher dose showing more significant toxicity than the lower one. Mel treatment was associated with a substantial amelioration of PE-MPs-induced toxic changes. Collectively, this study fills the knowledge gap about the MPs-induced adrenal cortex and elucidates various related toxic mechanisms. It also supports Mel's potential protective activity through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and gene transcription regulatory effects.