N-acetyl cysteine and zinc sulphate ameliorated crude oil-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

Even while crude oil offers many advantages, its toxic chemical composition has been shown to negatively interfere with the body's ability to maintain homeostasis. This investigation examined the effects of crude oil on the liver function of Wistar rats as well as the protective effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and zinc sulphate (ZnSO₄). The experimental group and control group consisted of 42 Wistar rats, which were divided into groups of six each. The experimental group had six groups, while the control group only consumed food and water. In the experimental group, three groups received a diet contaminated with crude oil for two, three, and four weeks, respectively. In addition, another three groups received NAC (100 mg/kg), ZnSO₄ (0.5 mg/kg), and a combination of NAC and ZnSo₄ for three weeks each. Rats' body weights were recorded both before and after the administration of crude oil. Using commercial kits and histological examinations carried out using conventional histopathological methods, the liver's toxicity was assessed. As a result of eating food contaminated with crude oil, the results showed a significant drop (p < 0.05) in body weight. Additionally, there was liver cell injury. The levels of alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase considerably increased. Histological analysis revealed abnormal changes to the liver's typical structure. NAC and ZnSO4 therapy reduced the elevated Alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase levels. The study's findings highlight the negative impacts of crude oil and the therapeutic effects of NAC and ZnSO4.