Lipid Peroxidation as a Biomarker for Exposure of Pesticides

Oxidative stress by increased production of reactive oxygen species has been implicated in the toxicity of many pesticides. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of current using pesticides, organophosphate and pyrethroids (Dimthoate, profenofos, chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin), on oxidative stress to establish lipid peroxidation (LPO) as a biomarkers for pesticide exposure in mice. Thirty mice were used in the study and were grouped into two with 10 mice in control group and 20 mice in pesticide treated group. Group A: untreated mice kept as control and served with equal volume of distilled water by gavage method. Group B: mice treated with Dimethoate (EC 30% w/w) 4 mg/kg b.w. was given on day first, profenofos (EC 50% w/w) 3 mg/kg b.w. was given on day second, chlorpyrifos (EC 20% w/w) 10 mg/kg b.w. was given on day third and cypermethrin (EC 25% w/w) 8 mg/kg b.w. was given on day fourth and this cycle was continued for 8 weeks to make chronic exposure of different pesticides. The treated and control group of mice were sacrificed on targeted day. MDA (malondialdehyde), the marker of lipid peroxidation was estimated for exposure of pesticides. The increase in lipid peroxidation marked by elevated levels of MDA in pesticide exposed group indicates oxidative stress. Thus the present study was concluded that lipid peroxidation as a biomarker for pesticides exposure.