Comparative Assessment of Phostoxin-Induced Biochemical and Histopathological Renal Toxicity in Male and Female Wistar Rats
Etu Esther Ifeyinwa
Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Science, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Abakiliki, Nigeria.
Peter Uwadiegwu Achukwu
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Nigeria, Enugu.
Nyejirime Young Wike *
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, State University of Medical and Applied Science, Igbo-Eno, Enugu State, Enugu, Nigeria.
Azubuike Nkiruka
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Nigeria, Enugu.
Onyemelukwe Anulika
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Nigeria, Enugu.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Phostoxin, an aluminium phosphide–based pesticide, is widely used as a fumigant but poses significant health risks due to its potential to cause oxidative and organ toxicity.
Aim: This study conducted a comparative assessment of phostoxin-induced biochemical and histopathological renal toxicity in male and female Wistar rats.
Methods: Thirty-six Wistar rats were assigned to three groups (n = 12 per group). Treatment groups were exposed to phostoxin for 30 and 60 days, while control rats were maintained under normal air conditions. Serum levels of sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), chloride (Cl⁻), bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), urea, and creatinine were analysed using standard biochemical methods. Renal tissues were processed for histopathological evaluation using haematoxylin and eosin staining.
Results: Phostoxin exposure caused a significant (p < 0.05) elevation in serum sodium and chloride levels and a corresponding decline in potassium levels compared with controls. Bicarbonate levels decreased slightly but not significantly. Urea and creatinine concentrations increased markedly (p < 0.05) after prolonged exposure, indicating impaired renal function. Histopathological analysis revealed mild haemorrhage, glomerular infiltration, and vacuolar degeneration after 30 days, whereas 60-day exposure resulted in glomerular distortion, tubular necrosis, and extensive vacuolation.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that chronic inhalation of Phostoxin induces significant biochemical and histological alterations in the kidneys of both male and female rats, reflecting dose- and duration-dependent nephrotoxicity.
Keywords: Phostoxin, aluminium phosphide, phosphine, nephrotoxicity, Wistar rats, renal histopathology, serum electrolytes, renal function