Trans fatty acids effect on some serum enzymes and immunological parameters in Wistar albino rats

Abstract

The effect of trans fatty acids on some serum enzymes and immunological parameters in male albino Wistar rats was evaluated in this study. Fifty (50) male Wistar albino rats weighing between 100-140g were divided into five groups of ten rats each. The animals were fed varying proportions of trans fatty acids (15% and 25%) respectively using margarine and thermoxidised palm oil as sources.The control received palletized grower’s feed. The feeding experiment lasted for eight (8) weeks after which the animals were sacrificed and sera collected for analyses. Results showed significant decrease/increase in levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) respectively.CD4+ levels and basophils count were increased in the test groups except group 3 compared to the controls. Lymphocytes showed significant decreases (P<0.05) in all the test groups except group 3 when compared to the control. Our findings did not reveal probable hepatotoxic effect and decreased immunity on consumption of of trans fatty acids.