Effects of Malathion, Melamine, and Monosodium Glutamate on Biochemical and Histopathologial Parameters and Gene Expression in Japanese Quail

Abstract

The present study investigated the effects of malathion (30 and 60 mg/Kg b.w), melamine (30 and 60 mg/Kg b.w), and monosodium glutamate (MSG) (2.5 and 5 g/Kg b.w) on body and organ weights, liver and kidney functions, hematological parameters, gene expression, and liver histopathology in Japanese quail after 90 days of exposure. The high dose of malathion led to the lowest body weight. Meanwhile, both doses of melamine increased liver weight. Significant differences were observed in liver function parameters, with high dose of MSG affecting ALT, AST, albumin, globulin and total protein, and high dose of melamine affecting ALT and ALP. Malathion and MSG had a greater impact on liver function compared to Melamine. Kidney function tests revealed significant differences in urea levels with a high dose of malathion. Hematological parameters showed significant differences in WBCs, MCH, and MCV in response to high doses of melamine and MSG. Molecular analysis demonstrated up-regulation of HDAC3, p53, and Bax genes and down-regulation of Bcl2 and Nrf2 genes with malathion having the highest effect, followed by melamine and MSG. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed congestion, necrosis, hemorrhage, and edema in malathion-treated quails; vacuolar degeneration, steatosis, and necrosis in melamine-treated quails; and necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and steatosis in MSG-treated quails. In conclusion, malathion, melamine, and MSG induced dose-dependent alterations in organ weights, biochemical parameters, gene expression, and liver histology in Japanese quail, highlighting the potential risks associated with exposure to these substances.