Therapeutic influence of zinc and ascorbic acid against lead induced biochemical alterations.

The influence of co-administration of zinc (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [ip]) and ascorbic acid (10, 20 and 30 mg/kg, ip) against lead (lead acetate; 35 mg/kg, ip for 3 days) induced biochemical alterations was studied in young albino rats. The results revealed significant fall in hemoglobin content, on the other hand significant raise in the activity of serum transaminases and serum alkaline phosphatase after lead administration. Significant increase in lipid peroxidation and decreased level of reduced glutathione in liver showed oxidative stress due to lead exposure. Total protein content in liver and kidney were diminished after lead exposure. Activity of acid phosphatase in liver and kidney and alkaline phosphatase in kidney was increased significantly. Zinc and ascorbic acid treatment showed moderate therapeutic efficacy when administered individually, whereas more pronounced protective effects were observed after combined therapy of zinc and different doses of ascorbic acid. The results thus, suggested that co-administration of zinc and ascorbic acid may be useful in restoration of lead induced biochemical alterations.