Biochemical studies on chlorpyrifos toxicity in broiler chickens

Abstract

Chlorphyrifos, an organophosphorus insecticide is highly effective for control of pests in various agricultural and animal husbandry practices. Its  continuous and indiscriminate us leaves residues in poultry feed ingredients. To study its toxicological effects, 120 broiler chicks were divided into 4 groups(1,3,4) having 30 chicks in earch. Chlorphyrifos was mixed in the feed of groups 2 3 4 a 30, 60 and 120 ppm levels, respectively, and fed for 6 weeks. Group 1 birds were fed normal chicks mash with no chlorpyrifos. Various biochemical parameters were studied at weekly intervals. A non-significant decrease in body weight and feed effeciency was observed. The blood glucose and total plasma proteins showed a significant (P<0.05) increase at all does in proportion to the dose level. Chlorphyrifos exposure produced hypercholesterolemia, which was significant from third week onwards in all the treated groups. An increase in the serum uric acid level was oberved in all test groups. The serum electrolytes concentration revealed an increase in the mean serum sodium level and a decrease in mean potassium level compared to control. Thus, the continuous presence of chlorpyrofos even in low dosages in the diet has deleterious effects on chicken body metabolism. Chlorpyrifos an organophosphorus insecticide is highly effective for control of pests in various agricultural and animal husbandry practices. its continuous and indiscriminate use leaves residues in poultry feed ingredients. To study its toxicological effects 120 broiler chicks were divided into 4 groups (1,2,3 and 4) having 30 chicks in each. Chlorphyrifox was mixed in the feedof groups 2,3 and 4 at 30, 60 and 120 ppm levels, respectively, and fed for 6 weeks Group 1 birds were fed normal chick mash with no chlorpyrifos. Various biochemical parameters were studied at weekly intervals. A nonsignificant decrease in body weight and feed efficiency was observed. The blood glucse and total plasma proteins showed a signigicant (P<0.05) increase at all doses in proportion to the dose level. Chlorpyrifos exposure produced hypercholesterolemia, which was significant from third week onwards in all the treated groups. An increase in the serum uric acid level was observed in all test groups. The serum electrolytes concentration revealed an increase in mean potassium level compared to control. Thus, the continuous presence of chlorpyrifos even in low dosage in the diet has deleterious effects on chicken body metabolism.