Role of T. vulgaris protects DNA damage induced by Lead acetate in Rats

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate Thymus vulgaris (T.vulgaris) ethanolic extract  protective role for lymphocytes viability and prevent  DNA damage by long-term exposure to Lead acetate (Pb) via ingestion. Material and method: A number of 24 females adult rats were divided into equal groups; 1st   Group, as control, 2nd Group administered with lead acetate 5 mg/kg B.W oral gavage lead acetate for 60 days and 3rd Group treated with lead acetate at dose 5mg/kg B.W and T.vulgaris extract  at doses 75mg/kg B.W for 60 days. Result: Results of  leukocytes (WBCs) and lymphocyte count revealed a significant (P≤0.05) decrease in the 2nd group and an increase in the 3rd group in comparison to the 1st group. Also the result of  Lymphocyte/Neutrophil ratio increased  significantly (P≤0.05) in the 2nd and 3rd groups as compared to the 1st group. lymphocytes viability were evaluated using trypan blue, showed statistically (P≤0.05) less viable lymphocytes cells were in the 2nd group and more viable lymphocytes cells were found in the 3rd group when comparing to 1st group. Ingestion of T.vulgaris showed a protective role in preventing DNA damage according to comet assay. Conclusion the ethanolic T.vulgaris polyphenols extracted molecules with their unique chemical molecular structure withstand lead toxicity, could be due to  chelate lead activity.