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In Vivo and In Silico Studies Assessment of the Effects of Oral Exposure to 1-Methylcyclopropene on Liver Function in Male Albino Rats

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Abstract

The use of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), a plant growth regulator, is widespread in the preservation of fruits and vegetables. However, its impact on human health remains uncertain. Previous studies have linked plant growth regulators to cellular damage and oxidative stress, and 1-MCP has been found to metabolize into mutagenic carcinogens, raising our concerns about its safety for consumption. The purpose of this study was to assess the toxic effects of 1-MCP on the liver of male albino rats. The study involved administering two doses of 1-MCP (5 mg/kg b.w. and 6.5 mg/kg b.w.) over an 8-week period and evaluating biochemical parameters, oxidative stress biomarkers, lipid peroxidation end-product, and liver histopathology. Results showed a significant increase in AST and ALT levels, elevated levels of MDA, and decreased GSH levels. The enzymatic antioxidant system of the liver (GST, GPx, CAT, and SOD) was also altered. Liver histology showed an abnormal architecture, necrosis, and infiltration of lymphocytes. These findings indicate that 1-MCP is hepatotoxic and induces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, leading to liver damage and dysfunction. Further studies are needed to fully understand the molecular implications and mechanisms of 1-MCP on the antioxidant response in higher organisms.

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Acknowledgements

This research was supported by the National Fund for Scientific Research of Algeria DGSRTD (Laboratory of Environmental Biosurveillance) and by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Algeria. The authors would like to thank Dr. HAMOUD Fares, a researcher at the Environment and Health Division, Environmental Research Center (CRE), Annaba, Algeria, for their assistance in the in silico study.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory of Environmental Biosurveillance (LBSE), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Badji Mokhtar University, BP 12, 23000, Annaba, Algeria

    Abdenour Ouali, Sameh Boukerche, Fouzia Trea & Kheireddine Ouali

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  1. Abdenour Ouali
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  2. Sameh Boukerche
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  3. Fouzia Trea
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  4. Kheireddine Ouali
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Correspondence to Kheireddine Ouali.

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The treatment of the animals followed the BADJI Mokhtar University's guidelines for animal care.

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Significance statement The work focuses on studying the physio-pathological effects of additives and plant regulators which are compounds used to maintain the quality of fruits and vegetables. The results will assess the impact of 1-MCP an ethylene inhibitor on liver function and oxidative stress defense in a mammal.

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Ouali, A., Boukerche, S., Trea, F. et al. In Vivo and In Silico Studies Assessment of the Effects of Oral Exposure to 1-Methylcyclopropene on Liver Function in Male Albino Rats. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., India, Sect. B Biol. Sci. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40011-024-01562-y

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