The effect of chronic exposure to lead and cadmium on lipid peroxidation in the rat brain

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of exposure to lead and cadmium on concentrations of some lipids, lipid peroxidation, enzymatic and non-enzymatic efficiency of antioxidants in the rat brain as well as the effect of combined exposure to metals on the lipid parameters and the activity of antioxidative system. The authors also compared the results in order to detect interactions between these two heavy metals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study used the model of chronic, sub-clinical intoxication of lead and/or cadmium in Buffalo rats. RESULTS: The tests involved the determination of lead and cadmium concentrations in the rat blood, superoxide dismutase activity, total cholesterol, lipid peroxides, and levels of vitamins C and E in tissue homogenates. CONCLUSIONS: Single and combined exposures to small doses of lead and cadmium in rats results in the changed parameters showing the stimulation of lipid peroxidation and antioxidative system along with interactions in their influence.