THE PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF ACEROLA FRUIT JUICE AGAINST LEAD TOXICITY ON RED BLOOD CELL SIZE IN MALE ALBINO MICE

Abstract

This study evaluated the protective effects of acerola fruit juice against lead toxicity by examining the size of red blood cells in male albino mice. The mice were divided into 6 groups, including a control group, a lead-exposed group (70 mg/kg body weight), a vitamin C group (30 mg/kg body weight), and three groups co-exposed to lead with acerola fruit juice at doses of 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg body weight, respectively. The results revealed that while lead exposure over four and eight weeks significantly reduced mouse red blood cells, co-administration of acerola fruit juice, particularly at 40 mg/kg, preserved normal red blood cell morphology and counteracted the hematotoxic effects of lead. These findings highlight the potential of acerola fruit juice as a supportive agent against lead-induced toxicity and warrant further investigation into its underlying mechanisms and therapeutic applications