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Induction of apoptosis in male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed to varying concentrations of spodumene

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara state, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Spodumene, a lithium-rich mineral used in various industrial applications, has raised concerns about its potential toxicity. Cell viability is the cell’s ability to maintain its structural and functional integrity, while apoptosis is a programmed cell death, which is a regulated process essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis.
Method: This study investigated the cytotoxic effects of spodumene collected from spodumene mining site at Kakafu village, Lade district, Patigi local government area, Kwara state, Nigeria. Male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) weighing 150 g – 250 g were exposed to various concentrations (50mg/kg, 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg) of spodumene for twenty-eight (28) days. A group that served as the control group was not exposed. Body weights of the animals were evaluated every seven days, while blood samples were obtained at the end of twenty-eight days for analysis of cell viability and apoptosis.
Results: This study revealed that spodumene exposure did not have any negative effect on the body weights of the animals. Spodumene exposure reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Viable cells and apoptotic cells in the 50 mg/kg concentration were 94.15±0.15 % and 44.75±0.25 % respectively, while viable cells and apoptotic cells in 400 mg/kg concentration were 86.00±1.00 % and 86.25±0.25 % respectively.
Conclusion: This study indicated that spodumene exposure indicated cellular toxicity in male Wistar rats. Therefore, there is need for further research on its safety and potential health risks especially on wild fauna, miners, other workers and people living close to the mining site.

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Asia Pacific Journal of Medical Toxicology
Volume 14, Issue 3
September 2025
Pages 86-91
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