Curcumin mitigates dichlorvos-induced organ toxicity, restoring hematological and metabolic functions

Abstract

Curcumin, a bioactive compound found in turmeric and ginger, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Dichlorvos (DDVP), a commonly used organophosphate pesticide for pest control in homes and farms, is associated with significant toxicity. This study investigated the protective effects of curcumin on health parameters in male Wistar rats exposed to DDVP. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A (control), Group B (DDVP only), Group C (DDVP + curcumin), and Group D (curcumin only). Exposure to DDVP resulted in altered hematological parameters, with decreased hemoglobin (HGB), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), alongside increased red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets (PLT). Immune function was compromised, indicated by elevated neutrophils and eosinophils and reduced lymphocytes. Lipid profile disturbances were observed, including increased total cholesterol and LDL levels and decreased HDL levels. Liver dysfunction was marked by elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. Thyroid disruption was evident through decreased T₃ and T₄ levels and altered TSH levels. Curcumin treatment significantly mitigated these adverse effects. It normalized RBC and PLT counts, balanced neutrophil, eosinophil, and lymphocyte levels, and corrected lipid profile imbalances by reducing cholesterol and LDL while increasing HDL levels. Liver toxicity was alleviated, and thyroid function showed partial restoration with normalized TSH levels. This study concludes that curcumin demonstrates significant protective effects against dichlorvos-induced toxicity, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent to mitigate pesticide-related health impacts.