The present study examined the roles of ascorbic acid (AA) on hematological indices, hepatic function and lipid profile, and liver histology in rats co-treated with Atrazine (ATZ) and sodium nitrate (NaNO3). The hematological indices, liver function tests, lipid profile, and liver histology were performed using standard protocols. The [ATZ + NaNO3] significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells, hematocrit, and platelets, while erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cells, lymphocytes, and granulocytes were elevated. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in [ATZ + NaNO3] group. Hepatic levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids were significantly elevated in [ATZ + NaNO3] –treated rats compared with controls. Interestingly, these derangements were significantly (p < 0.05) improved in rats exposed to [ATZ + NaNO3 + AA]. Liver histology revealed the presence of diffuse hepatic necrosis with cellular infiltration in [ATZ + NaNO3] group, a feature not observed in rats exposed to [ATZ + NaNO3 + AA]. The results of the present study suggest that ascorbic acid could potentially attenuate hematological and hepatic derangements induced by co-treatment with atrazine and sodium nitrate.

Keywords: Ascorbic acid, atrazine, hematological indices, hepatic function, lipid profile, sodium nitrate