Cataractogenic Potential Of Cyanide-Induced Oxidative Stress In Rabbits

Abstract

The relationship between chronic cyanide toxicity, oxidative stress and cataractogenesis was investigated in two groups of 4-month-old NewZealand White rabbits fed for 7 weeks on growers mash with or without 400ppm inorganic cyanide, after prior acclimatisation to chicken mash and laboratory conditions. Ophthalmoscopic examination of the rabbit ocular tissues was conducted prior to sacrifice, while the lens and retina tissues were assessed for antioxidant status with respect to superoxide dismutase, catalase, β-carotene, ascorbic acid and α –tocopherol.

Results obtained show significant decreases in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, as well as the antioxidant vitamins, in the lens and retina of the cyanide-treated rabbits relative to controls [p< 0.05]. The cyanide treatment also led to degenerative morphological changes viz pale fundus, weak retinal reflex and mild-to-pronounced lenticular opacification.

These results suggest that cyanide imposes oxidative stress on ocular tissues, and thus may be a risk factor for development of cataracts.

Key Words: Cyanide toxicity; oxidative stress; cataracts.

Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences Vol.11(1) 2005: 57-62