Serum and Tissue Lipid Profile in Albino Rats Administered Food Colors

Abstract

Objectives: Lipids are the most important structural component of various biological membranes. Some studies showed different effects of food colors on lipid level. Some food colors were given to albino rats to observe the in vivo effect on liver tissues and serum lipids in experimental rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four albino rats were randomly divided into four groups. Three groups were administered with different doses of the food colors in low protein diet for 30 days. Control group received low protein diet and drinking water ad libitum. Lipid profile in serum and liver of the experimental animals was measured and compared with the control animals. Blood serum was also analysed for total protein and glucose content. Results: High dose of food colors caused significant increase of serum Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) (p<0.01), more significant increase (p<0.001) of serum triglycerides and total cholesterol, while serum High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) was significantly decreased. There was also a significant increase in the level of triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL in the liver tissue. Although all lipid parameters in serum except HDL elevated, the maximum increase was seen in total triglycerides and the lowest elevation was observed in LDL. The serological studies revealed a significant increase in serum glucose, whereas a significant decrease was recorded in the levels of serum protein. Conclusion: The administration of food colors in albino rats induced liver damage hence, changes incurred in the lipid metabolism.