Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Agriculture - Department of Agricultural Biochemistry

Aflatoxin contamination of animal diet is still a major problem for breeders since it has adverse effects on animal health and productivity. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of using coumarin and/or chlorophyll in rat diet against aflatoxicosis. Fifty four rats were randomly assigned into 7 groups ''6 rats each'' and group 5 ''12 rats''. Group 1 was negative control. Group 2 received water with coumarin 0.5%. Group 3 received water with chlorophyll 0.5%. Group 4 received water with coumarin 0.5% and chlorophyll 0.5%. Group 5-8 received basal diet with aflatoxin B1 1000 ppb. Group 6-8 were administered similar treatments as groups 2-4. The experiment ended after 8 weeks. Water and feed consumption were measured and feed conversion and efficiency rates were calculated. Random glucose level, total lipid, total cholesterol, triglyceride, total protein, creatinine and urea as well as ALT and AST activities were determined in serum. Histopathological examination of liver, kidney and pancreas was performed. The conversion and efficiency rates were significantly low in group 5 compared to groups 6-8. The serum glucose and cholesterol content as well as AST and ALT activities were elevated in group 5 compared to groups 6-8. The liver lesions observed in group 5 represented in vacuolation and necrosis were alleviated in groups 6-8. The necrosis and inflammatory cells infiltration in pancreas of group 5 were absent in groups 6-8. In conclusion, the coumarin and or chlorophyll possessed a hepatoprotective effect against aflatoxincosis

Issued also as CD