Role of Activated Charcoal in Mitigating Lead-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Wistar Rats

Background: Lead is a pervasive environmental toxin known for its severe impact on human health, particularly targeting vital organs like the liver through mechanisms involving oxidative stress and inflammation. This study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of activated charcoal against lead-induced hepatotoxicity in albino Wistar rats. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted from Feb to Aug 2024. Thirty-six male albino Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups (n=12): Group A (control group); Group B (lead-acetate group); and Group C (lead-acetate+activated charcoal group). Blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture and analysed for liver function tests. Liver tissues were harvested for histopathological analysis under high power after H&E staining. Results: Group B showed significant increases in AST (79.31±9.79 U/L), ALT (38.28±2.29 U/L), ALP (209.09±8.49 U/L), bilirubin (0.98±0.43 mg/dL), and reductions in albumin (2.88±0.28 g/dL) and total proteins (6.92±0.22 g/dL) (p<0.001). Group C had intermediate values between Groups A and B for these parameters. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase levels were highest in Group A, lower in Group B, and intermediate in Group C (p<0.001). Histological examination revealed significant vacuolar degeneration and lymphocyte infiltration in Group B, while Group C exhibited milder histological changes with fewer infiltrations. Conclusion: Activated charcoal significantly reduces lead-induced hepatotoxicity in albino Wistar rats, evident from biochemical and histological improvements. Pak J Physiol 2025;21(2):29-33, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v21i2.1761