Histopathological and Biochemical Alterations in the Adrenal Gland of Male Rats Exposed to Bisphenol F

Abstract

Bisphenol F (BPF) is a bisphenol A derivative that is widely used in the manufacturing of industrial and consumer products. The presented study was conducted to explore the adverse effects of BPF on the adrenal glands of rats. Toward this aim, twenty-eight male albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups, each containing seven individuals. The animals were administered a vehicle (control) or BPF at 3 different doses comprising 20, 100, and 500 mg/kg of body weight (bw) via oral gavage for 28 days. Next, the effects of BPF on the gland were evaluated in terms of histopathological alterations, serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels, and the contents of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). The zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex showed prominent histopathological lesions such as vacuolar degeneration and necrotic degeneration in the experimental groups. BPF caused noticeable elevations in the serum ACTH and cortisol levels. Moreover, decreases in levels of GSH and increments in the contents of MDA were determined, indicating oxidative stress. In conclusion, BPF showed toxic effects on the adrenal gland that may result in disruptions in its vital functions in the body. The results herein suggest that attention should be paid to the utilization of BPF in manufacturing processes due to its harmful effects and risks to the health of organisms.