Hepatotoxicity induced by gibberellic acid in adult rats and their progeny

Gibberellic acid (GA₃), a plant growth regulator, was largely used in agriculture of many countries including Tunisia. However, its potential hazardous effects on human health were relatively unexplored. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of GA₃ on hepatic function in female rats and their pups. Animals were given daily 200 ppm GA₃ in drinking water from the 14th day of pregnancy until day 14 after delivery. It was found that GA₃ induced liver damages as evidenced by the elevation of plasma aminotransferases (ALT, AST), lactate dehydrogenase activities, bilirubin and albumin levels. Hepatotoxicity was objectified by the significant increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) level and a decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione content in liver of suckling pups and their mothers. Impairment of hepatic function corresponded histologically. We have observed blood vessels congestion and leucocytes infiltration, which were more pronounced in hepatocytes of dams than those of suckling pups.Results of this current study suggest that exposure rats to GA₃ induces hepatotoxicity and histopathological changes in liver of female rats and their progeny.