The comparison of the protective effect of zinc and selenite ions against cadmium induced changes of protein synthesis in mice organs

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of zinc (Zn2+) and selenite ions (SeO32–) against cadmium ions (Cd2+)-induced changes of protein synthesis in mice organs. Material and methods: Experiments were performed with outbred 4 – 6-week-old white laboratory mice using intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of CdCl2, ZnSO4, and Na2SeO3 solution 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Protein synthesis was evaluated by incorporation of [14C]-labeled leucine into newly synthesized peptides and proteins. Results: General effect of used metals was assessed according to mice body weight gain and the relative weight index of organs. In respect to the control, the body weight gain of experimental mice was higher after 5 – 6 week of CdCl2 treatment. In addition, an increase in the relative weight index of the liver was revealed. The significant decrease of body weight gain in Zn2+-treated mice, as compared to the control, was obtained at only the last week of ZnSO4 administration. Zn2+ or SeO32–, administered together with Cd2+, abolished the stimulating effect of Cd2+ on mice growth. Zn2+ pretreatment also eliminated the Cd2+-induced mice liver weight alteration. Exposure to Cd2+ decreased incorporation of 14C-labeled leucine into newly synthesized peptides and proteins in liver, kidney and heart. The protein synthesis in skeletal muscle was activated by Zn2+. The pretreatment with ZnSO4 or Na2SeO3 solution provided a different protective effect of Zn2+ and SeO32– against a Cd2+-induced decrease in the intensity of protein synthesis in mice organs. Conclusion: The protective effect provided by Zn2+, against Cd2+ suppressed translation, was greater than the one provided by SeO32–.