Time-dependent protective effect of selenium against cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity

The role of selenium in protection against nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity of cadmium in rats was investigated. The administration of Cd (3 mg/kg, s.c.) for 3 days enhanced the urinary excretion of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and total proteins, decreased the renal activity of GOT and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and increased the renal level of Cd, Cu and Zn. Cadmium also increased the serum GOT and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), decreased the hepatic activity of GOT and GPT and increased the hepatic level of Cd and Zn. The concomitantly administered Se (2 mg/kg, i.p.) initially reduced most of these Cd-induced alterations. The results show protection by Se against nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity of Cd on the 4th day of the commencement of Cd administration, but the signs of Cd intoxication were observed on the 8th day.