Protective effects of Citrus limon supplementation against arsenic-induced clinicopathological, ultrastructural, and genotoxic alterations in Swiss Albino mice

Arsenic exposure poses significant toxic effects on various biological systems, and this study investigates the ameliorative potential of Citrus limon (lemon) on arsenic-induced toxicity in mice. For the experimental study, 24 Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into four groups of six mice each. Group A served as control group (C ). Group B (SA) was exposed to arsenic for 28 days. Group C (CL) was supplemented C. limon and Group D (SA+CL) received arsenic treatment for 28 days along with Citrus limon supplementation. Hemato-biochemical analysis revealed that arsenic exposure resulted in macrocytic hypochromic anemia, significantly elevated liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransfera, alkaline phosphatase) ), creatinine, cholesterol, and total bilirubin levels, and significantly reduced total protein and albumin levels. Oxidative stress markers indicated increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) and decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), and catalase. Group D (SA+CL)) revealed fewer ultrastructural changes like irregular nuclear membranes, fragmented chromatin, lipid droplet accumulation, and swelling of mitochondria and rough ER and microscopic changes like hydropic degeneration, fatty changes and inflammatory changes in liver as compared to group B (SA). The sperm head abnormalities were significantly reduced and the sperm count was normal in lemon supplemented arsenic toxicity group. The formation of micronuclei in normochromatic and polychromatic RBCs was reduced in arsenic treated lemon supplemented group. In conclusion, C. limon administration in mice exhibited a significant protective effect against arsenic-induced alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters, along with a marked reduction in oxidative stress, pathological lesions, and genotoxic damage.