Protective Effect of Urtica urens L. against Osteoporosis and Hepatotoxicity induced by Imidacloprid in Rats - Abstract
Aims: Imidacloprid (IMI) has been known to cause osteoporosis and hepatotoxicity. Some reports claim that Urtica urens L. (UU) can reduce toxicity. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of UU against this toxicity. Methods: Rats were divided into control group, 3 groups treated with IMI at 50, 200 or 300 mg/kg/day and three groups injected with IMI (50, 200
or 300 mg/kg/day) + 100 mg/kg/day of UU, for 60 days. Urine and blood samples were collected for dosage of biochemical levels. Livers were removed for oxidative stress and histological examination. The effects of IMI and UU on the bone were analyzed using physicochemical techniques: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDX) and biochemical analyses (Calcium and Phosphorus).Results: IMI caused an acute renal and liver injury, increased the biochemical and tissular levels of MDA, and decreased the levels of antioxidant enzyme activities. UU injection improved the histological and all biochemical parameters. Results show that IMI caused osteoporosis in female rats. Conclusions: IMI induced osteoporosis and an acute liver injury accompanied with disturbance of oxidant status. UU injection provided a significant protection thanks to antioxidant properties.