Influence of Red Clay Minerals on Lead-induced Liver and Testicular Oxidative Stress and Histological Alteration in Rats

The aim of this work is to assess the impact of red clay on the physiological and biochemical alterations in rats exposed to lead acetate. The experimental study was carried out in the laboratory on 18 male Wistar rats, which were divided into three groups of six rats in each, the first group served as control, the second group contaminated with lead, and the third group contaminated with lead and treated with red clay. Some biochemical, haematological, and oxidative stress parameters are analysed. Regarding the characterization of the clay, the results of infrared spectroscopy and X-ray spectroscopy indicate the presence of several bands indicating the mineral richness of red clay. From the analysis of our results, we observe a considerable change in the body weight, and an increase in the relative weight of liver and testis in the rats contaminated with lead compared to control. The results also show a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in the serum calcium and iron. However, serum transaminases (GPT, GOT) activities are increased in the rats contaminated with lead in comparison with control. The results obtained reveal also a decrease in the Hb, HCT, and MCV levels and in the GSH concentration and an increase in the PLT, MDA, GST, and SOD levels compared to control. Also the results clearly show alterations in the structures of the liver and testis in comparison with the controls. Treatment with red clay partially ameliorates the previous parameters, with protection and regeneration of the tissue against free radical attacks caused by lead. In conclusion, this study shows that treatment with red clay induces a positive effect against lead toxicity at molecular and tissue level.