Postnatal Changes of Lung Structure in Albino Rats after Aluminum Chloride Exposure and Possible Protective Role of Omega 3

Abstract

Background: During the last decades, human exposure to Aluminum (AL) is markedly increased as it presents in drinking water, manufactured food and in several medicines like buffered aspirin and antacids. Omega-3 possesses a wide range of beneficial effects and plays a role in the treatment of different forms of chronic lung diseases.
Aim of the study: To evaluate the possible effect of Aluminum chloride in the structure of the lung in postnatal albino rats. The possible protective role of Omega 3 using a light microscope, immunohistochemistry, and morphometric study.
Materials and Methods: 48 female rats of Wistar were divided into 4 groups. Treatment was carried out by the 14th day of pregnancy until 14 days. Pups of all groups were sacrificed at 14th and 21st days postnatal. Group I was given water and a balanced diet by gastric intubation. Group II each rat gavaged orally with Omega 3 (20 mg/kg b.w) dissolved in corn oil once daily. Group III each rat was given orally aluminum chloride (475 mg/l equivalent to 76 mg/kg BW, orally) dissolved in water. Group IV rats gavage orally with Omega 3 (20 mg/kg) and aluminum chloride (475 mg/l equivalent 76 mg/kg BW, orally).
Results: On day 14 there is severe destruction of the bronchial mucosal lining and the nearby bronchial vessel. Besides, highly congested bronchial vessels (CBV), as well as, prominent thick interalveolar septa and variably sized sacculations are seen. At day 21th postnatal: H & E stained sections of lung showing congested bronchial vessel and small bronchioles with intra-bronchiolar hemorrhage and exudate. Omega 3 protected group shows an improvement of the previous results.
Conclusion: Aluminum chloride affects the normal development of the lung. The use of Omega 3 compounds reduces the toxic effects caused by aluminum chloride exposure.