INTESTINAL DYSFUNCTION AND ALTERATION OF VARIOUS SYSTEMIC AND MORPHOMETRIC CHARACTERS IN ALBINO RATS (CHARLES FOSTER) UNDER STRESS OF INORGANIC ARSENIC (IAS) COMPOUNDS: A PILOT STUDY.

Abstract

The absorption of both necessary nutrients and harmful xenobiotics by mammalian small intestine is linked to its morphometry and wall movements. We exposed male albino rats to different dose and durations of sodium arsenite and arsenate to explore their effects on the intestinal performance. The treated rats exhibited decreased body mass, intestinal hypercontractility, diarrhea, lipid membrane damage and decreased tissue aminotransferase. Morphometric studies revealed increased intestinal length and intestine-somatic index in arsenic-exposed groups. The first set of results indicated rapid transit suggesting inhibited absorption of nutrients, which causes metabolic stress and malnutrition. Whereas the results of morphometric studies indicate an attempt of the body’s innate protective mechanism to increase the effective area of absorption. Thus we conclude that the various assorted systemic and morphometric side effects of arsenic poisoning are strongly associated with intestinal dysfunction related to intestinal wall movement and disrupted absorption capabilities.