The chronic effects of cyanide on oxidative stress indices in the domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus L.)

Abstract Background This study was conducted in order to elucidate the effects of cyanide (CN−) as sodium cyanide on oxidative parameters in the tissues of birds (Gallus domesticus L.) exposed to CN− directly by gavage and indirectly through their feed. Results Lipid peroxidation (LPO) level and activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined in the kidney, liver, heart, and brain of the (CN−) exposed birds. LPO was significantly (p < 0.05) increased in a dose-dependent manner in all the tissues of birds exposed to CN− directly and indirectly (feed), while CAT and SOD activities were concomitantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner regardless of the mode of exposure. However, it is noteworthy that the effect of CN− was more pronounced in the tissues of birds administered (CN−) directly. Conclusions The study reveals that direct and indirect exposure of birds to CN− by gavage and food respectively induced oxidative stress. These findings were corroborated by the histopathological changes in the liver, kidney, and brain.