Studies of the effect of indole and its derivative 1-benzylindole on the functional state of the heart and blood values of laboratory rats

Background. Indole and its derivatives are widely used in all areas of pharmaceutical production. The toxicometry of indole compounds has been sufficiently studied. At the same time, there is still no information on the toxic effect on individual organs and systems during long-term intake of most compounds.The aim. To carry out an experimental study of the toxic effect of indole and its derivative 1-benzylindole on the functional state of the heart and blood values.Materials and  methods. The  work was  carried  out on  46  white rats, divided into groups: control group (n = 22); animals receiving indole once a day for 1 month (n = 12); animals receiving 1-benzylindole once a day for 1 month (n = 12). The substances were administered intragastrically 5 days a week. The condition of the animals was assessed by integral parameters, peripheral blood parameters and biochemical serum tests, and morphological data.Results. Administration of indole and 1-benzylindole caused an increase in the electrical activity of the atria, a decrease in the duration of the QRS complex, and a statistically significant decrease in  blood pressure and  body temperature compared to the control group. The intake of indole and 1-benzylindole decreased the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin, increased the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, and increased the concentrations of urea, total cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Against the background of long-term exposure to indole and 1-benzylindole, dystrophic disorders, hypertrophic and atrophic changes in individual fibers with a pronounced congestion of the microcirculatory vessels were revealed in the heart of rats.Conclusion. Indole and 1-benzylindole in case of long-term intake lead to functional disorders of the cardiovascular system, which cause the development of arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, and atherosclerotic vascular lesions. Preventive measures in industries with possible contact with indole and its derivatives should include regular medical examinations of workers with mandatory monitoring of electrocardiography and advanced indicators of general and biochemical blood tests.