Protective effects of short-term administration of zinc on bone metabolism parameters in male rats treated with cadmium

Acute cadmium (Cd) intoxication can be caused by eating foods or drinks that are packed in metal containers coated with Cd. The exposure to Cd enhanced resorption and inhibited formation of the bone tissue resulting in its decreased mineralization and may lead to various complications. Zinc supplement can reduce Cd absorption as well as neutralize the Cd-induced toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of zinc on bone metabolism parameters in male rats treated with Cd. In this experimental study, a total of 48 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into eight groups: group 1 received 0.5 mL of normal saline, group 2 received 0.5 mg/kg zinc, three Cd groups that received three different Cd concentrations (0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg) and the other three groups received three Cd concentrations and zinc simultaneously. Blood samples were taken over a 30-day period and factors related to bone metabolism were measured. The results showed that administration of three different doses of Cd chloride (0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg) increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium and decreased the albumin concentration compared to the control group. Moreover, the simultaneous use of three concentrations of Cd chloride with zinc reduced the alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and increased the albumin concentration (P<0.05). Zinc supplementation can have protective effects against the toxicity caused by Cd on parameters of bone metabolism.