Effect of Low-Dose Chlorpyrifos on Hepatocyte Necrosis and Serum Albumin Levels in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Chlorpyrifos is a broad-spectrum organophosphate pesticide that also causes various health problems. The active metabolite of chlorpyrifos can increase free radicals in the body, especially in the liver and kidneys. The continuous increase in free radicals will cause an imbalance between free radicals and oxidants, triggering oxidative stress. Oxidative stress stimulates mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in changes in the hepatocyte shape and serum albumin levels. This study aimed to determine the effect of chlorpyrifos on the hepatic histopathology scores and serum albumin levels of Wistar rats. Experimental research was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Jember in May-December 2024. A total of 12 male Wistar rats were divided into two groups. The control group was given normal saline (+5% Tween 20), and the chlorpyrifos group was given chlorpyrifos + normal saline (+5% Tween 20) orally for 7 days. On the 8th day, all animals were euthanized with ketamine-xylazine, hepatic organs, and blood were taken intracardiac. Preparations were made using HE staining, and serum albumin levels were checked using a photometer. The results showed that hepatic histopathology scores assessed by the Manja Roenigk method and serum albumin levels had significant differences between the groups metabolized. Seven days of chlorpyrifos exposure can increase hepatocyte necrosis and decrease serum albumin levels.