Safety and toxicity indicators of a stabilized coenzyme-containing feed additive in white mice

Abstract

α-Lipoic acid, as a universal coenzyme, participates in energy metabolism and exhibits pronounced antioxidant, hepatoprotective, detoxifying, and immunostimulatory properties, which justifies its inclusion in compound feeds. This article presents the results of experimental studies on the safety and acute toxicity of a novel feed additive containing α-lipoic acid, produced from plant- and animal-derived raw materials. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and acute toxicity of the α-lipoic acid-containing feed additive based on experiments conducted in laboratory mice. For this purpose, the animals received intragastric administration of 0.6 cm³ of the feed additive emulsion at two different concentrations (30 % and 60 %). During the 11-day observation period, no mortality was recorded. Mice in the experimental groups exhibited transient depression and mild digestive disturbances, which disappeared within 18–25 hours after administration. Pathomorphological examination revealed no pathological changes in the liver, kidneys, heart, or spleen. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that total protein levels and hepatic aminotransferase activities in the experimental animals remained within the physiological range. Administration of higher doses (100–6000 mg/kg body weight) also resulted in no lethal outcomes, allowing the investigated feed additive to be classified as slightly toxic (Hazard Class IV), with an LD50 exceeding 5000 mg/kg body weight. In addition, the α-lipoic acid-containing feed additive did not induce marked toxic alterations in the clinical condition of laboratory animals, even when administered at high emulsion concentrations. Throughout the entire experimental period, the mice maintained satisfactory appetite, locomotor activity, and responsiveness to external stimuli following a brief adaptation period. The absence of pathological changes in internal organs together with the stability of biochemical parameters indicates good tolerance of the additive by the animal organism. The obtained findings may serve as a scientific basis for the further implementation of this feed additive in the feeding of farm animals, poultry, and fish, as well as for subsequent studies aimed at evaluating its biological efficacy and effects on productivity. The obtained results confirm the safety and potential effectiveness of using the α-lipoic acid-containing feed additive in animal production. Further studies are planned to evaluate its effects on fish productivity.