Survey on the effect of nanochitin as a chelator on lead toxicokinetic in kidney tissues of male Wistar rats

Background &  Lead is a toxic metal to living organisms, including humans. In recent years, the use of different types of nanoparticles such as nanochitin has become common for the removal of lead from aqueous solutions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nanochitin (1.6 mg/kg) on kidney tissue, the rate of Pb (50 mg/kg) absorption and elimination from kidney tissue. Materials &  Seven groups of 5 Wistar rats (180-150 g, 8-10 weeks) were fed with Pb and nano chitin with different doses and duration. After euthanasia, kidney tissues were separated and Pb concentration was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Kidney tissues were also prepared for hematoxylin-eosin staining and then were examined by light microscopy. No tissue damage was observed in nano chitin-fed rats. The use of nano chitin significantly reduced the Pb concentration as well as lesions in the tissues of all groups that were fed with nanochitin and Pb compared to the group which was fed only with Pb. Nanochitin consumption after two weeks reduced Pb concentration in the tissues of all rats fed with Pb for 4 weeks compared to the control group.  The results of this study showed that nano chitin, without having negative effects on kidney tissues, can cause the reduction of the Pb absorption and its removal from the body. Therefore, it seems that this substance can be used as a dietary supplement to prevent Pb poisoning.