Ameliorating effects of Lactobacillus probiotics on cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress in Wistar rats

Cadmium (Cd) causes significant oxidative stress, which can lead to major clinical complications and tissue destruction. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of a mixture of Iranian probiotic strains were evaluated in Cd-exposed rats. Twenty-one adult male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups of seven rats: the control group, Cd-treated (3 mg/kg, a single dose) animals, and the rats treated with Cd + probiotic (Cd + Pro) for 30 days. Histological changes were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, as well as Masson’s trachoma staining. The qRT-PCR method was used for evaluating pro-inflammatory genes’ expression. Liver biomarkers (ALT, ALP, and AST), biochemical enzymes, and blood parameters were measured using commercial kits, and hematological parameters were determined in both Cd- and the Cd + Pro–treated groups. Histopathologically, results revealed that the native probiotic mixture improved the function of Cd-treated liver cells, compared with Cd-treated rats. Also, positive changes of blood parameters and liver biomarker were observed in the treated group compared with the Cd-treated group. There was a down-regulation of TNF-α and IL-6 genes’ expression in Cd + Pro–treated compared with the Cd-treated group. In addition, Cd + Pro–treated rats displayed lower production of lipid peroxides, lower levels of hepatic toxicity biomarkers, and increased levels of CAT and SOD antioxidant biomarkers compared to Cd-treated animals. Iranian native probiotics showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is suggested to investigate their health benefits in animal studies in the future.