Evaluation of therapeutic effects of taurine on cardiovascular toxicity of acute aluminum phosphide poisoning in male rats

Abstract

Background: Aluminum Phosphide (AlP), an extremely lethal solid pesticide, protects the stored grain and other types of products from pests and insects. Various studies have reported that the liver, lungs, kidneys, and heart are the most vulnerable organs to AlP toxicity. But cardiovascular collapse can be the leading cause of death within the first 24 hours. Taurine has been chosen for the present study to examine its cardioprotective effect against AlP-induced toxicity. Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the probable protective effect of taurine on cardiac biochemical and hemodynamic parameters induced by AlP-poisoning in the rat model. Method: To evaluate AlP-induced cardiotoxicity, the animals were divided into seven groups, including the control group, the taurine group (500 mg/kg), AlP with LD50 dose, AlP + taurine in different doses. To assess cardiac hemodynamic parameters, Wistar rats received taurine intraperitoneally 60 minutes after AlP gavage. Cardiac hemodynamic parameters were evaluated for 180 minutes. To study biochemical parameters, 24 hours after AlP treatment, the animals were sacrificed, and heart tissues were collected. Result: ECG, BP, and HR abnormalities of AlP poisoning were improved by taurine treatment. AlP induced biochemical alterations including complexes I and IV activities, the ADP/ATP ratio, mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome C release, and oxidative stress biomarkers were ameliorated by taurine. Moreover, taurine improved apoptosis, as well as lessened CK-MB and troponin I levels. Also, there were no significant changes between taurine 500 mg/kg and the control group in tests. Conclusion: The present findings showed that taurine could be a possible candidate for AlP cardiotoxicity treatment via the effect on mitochondrial electron transfer chain and maintaining intracellular ATP balance.