Abstract
For decades, lead (Pb) has being known for its adverse effects on various body organs and systems. In
the present study, the ability of Pb to lower renal clearance (RC), as an index of renal function, was
investigated and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum: source of antioxidants) paste (TP) was
administered orally to prevent the Pb’s adverse effects. 54 Sprague Dawley rats, randomly divided into
3 groups (A, B and C) n = 18, were used for this study. Group A animals served as the control and were
drinking distilled water. Group B and Group C animals were drinking 1% lead(II)acetate (LA). Group C
Animals were, in addition to drinking LA, treated with 1.5 ml of TP/day. All treatments were for 8 weeks.
Mann–Whitney U-test was used to analyse the results obtained. The results of this study showed that
Pb caused a significant reduction in the weight gain, 24 h urine volume, RC, plasma and tissue
superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, but a significant increase in plasma and
tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Administration of TP, however, prevented these Pb’s
adverse effects. These findings lead to the conclusion that oral administration of TP prevents Pb’s
adverse effects on the kidney mainly by preventing oxidation.
Key words: Renal clearance, tomato, lead, Lycopersicon esculentum, heavy metals, oxidative stress.
