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Variations in rat biochemical parameters after buckshot implant
C M López1, A E Piñeiro, D E González
1Cátedra de Toxicología y Química Legal, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Farmaco (Societa Chimica Italiana : 1989)
|June 26, 1998
Summary
Lead exposure from ingested buckshot significantly impacts rat physiology. Hematoporphyrins (HP) and urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALAU) effectively indicate lead presence, suggesting safer alternatives for hunting are needed.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Animal Studies
Background:
- Lead exposure is a significant public health concern.
- Lead poisoning affects various physiological parameters.
- Assessing lead exposure indicators is crucial for monitoring and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the physiological effects of ingested lead spheres in rats.
- To compare the efficacy of different biomarkers for detecting lead exposure.
- To recommend safer alternatives to lead buckshot in hunting.
Main Methods:
- Albino Wistar rats were implanted with lead or glass spheres in the peritoneum or thigh.
- Measurements included delta-aminolevulinic dehydratase (ALAD) activity, urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALAU), hematoporphyrins (HP), and blood lead levels (BPb).
- Standardized assays were used for biochemical and lead level determinations over 90 days.
Main Results:
- Lead exposure altered ALAD activity, ALAU, HP, and BPb levels.
- Hematoporphyrins (HP) and urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALAU) were identified as superior indicators of lead presence.
- Both peritoneal and thigh lead implants showed significant physiological effects.
Conclusions:
- Lead exposure via ingestion significantly impacts rat physiology.
- HP and ALAU are reliable biomarkers for assessing lead exposure.
- The use of lead buckshot in hunting poses risks and should be replaced with less toxic alternatives.