Dyshomeostatic effects of nitrates from drinking water on non-protein nitrogen metabolites in Leporides [articol]

Abstract

Studies on the action of nitrates present in environment (soil, water, foods) or used in food processing (as food additives) are of interest for their effects induced on the biochemical homeostasis in human and animals. An experimental animal model was designed in order to investigate the effect of nitrates on some serum parameters. In our experimental investigations rabbits were used in order to obtain information regarding changes in biochemical homeostasis. This model was chosen, taken into account the fact that rabbits are used as experimental animals and as food products. Sodium and magnesium nitrates in elevated concentrations as compared to the maximum contaminant level (MCL) - an indicator accepted by the internationally organizations - were administered to rabbits by drinking water. After the nitrates administration we determined the concentration of non-protein metabolites in rabbits’ serum i.e. uric acid, urea and creatinine. Two experimental groups - (EA ), respectively (EB ) were formed. In the drinking water of the animals from EA group - NaNO₃ and of those from EB group - Mg(NO₃)₂ were introduced in high concentration - 20 fold higher the MCL value established in drinking water. Dyshomeostasis of serum non-protein nitrogen metabolites were revealed by the analytical results. The effects of nitrates action on the animal organism were reflected by results indicating a depression of uric acid quantum in both experimental groups. In the case of urea, a significant increase of its quantum was observed in both groups; in the case of creatinine the increase only in the EA group was significant.