EFFECT OF PHENANTHRENE EXPOSURE ON THE TOTAL ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY, CATALASE, SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE AND XANTHINE OXIDASE, OF THE LIVER

Background and Aim: Phenanthrene is an aromatic compound with three benzene rings forming the main structure. It represents the majority of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in the environment and is found in a variety of areas including, burnt smoky coal particles soil and sediment, diesel emissions, tobacco and food smoke. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of phenanthrene on oxidative stress markers in male Wistar rats. Methodology: Fifty healthy rats weighing between 100 and 180g were used for this study. The animals were randomly assigned into five groups of ten rats per group. Group A served as control and the animals were administered with 1ml of DMSO oil only orally for three weeks. Groups B animals were administered orally with 5mg/kg of phenanthrene dissolved in 9ml of DMSO oil and Group C animals were administered orally with 10mg/kg of phenanthrene dissolved in 13ml of DMSO oil for three weeks. Group D animals, had 180mg/kg of phenanthrene dissolved in 1ml of DMSO oil orally, once, while Group E animals were also, administered orally with 900mg/kg of phenanthrene dissolved in 1ml of DMSO oil, given once. Results: Results of the experiment showed significant increase in Superoxide dismutase, Xanthine oxidase levels and in Total antioxidant capacity. Conclusion: Phenanthrene increased oxidative stress, in male Wistar rats.