Dose-dependent effects of soybean and mustard oils on hematobiochemical and histopathological changes in mice

Abstract

Soybean oil (SO) is used worldwide, whereas mustard oil (MO) consumption is generally limited to South Asia. Nevertheless, the organ-damaging effects of these substances at multiple doses over time have not been well studied. This study evaluated the hematobiochemical and histopathological effects of SO and MO in a mouse model. A total of 84 male Swiss albino mice, aged 5 weeks, were divided into seven groups (n=12 each): a control group (C) given pellets, and six treatment groups (S1-S3 and M1-M3) administered escalating doses of SO or MO at 15, 25, and 35 ml/kg for 60 days. Following euthanasia, blood samples were examined for hematological and biochemical parameters using standard assays. The hearts, livers, and kidneys were collected for measurement and then prepared for histopathology using H & E staining. The hematobiochemical parameters were significantly elevated in all treated groups when compared to the control group (P<0.05). The most significant changes were observed in the M3 group, except for HDL, which showed more pronounced differences in S1. Organ weights were also significantly increased in the treated groups. Histopathological examination revealed dose-dependent toxicity, with inflammatory cell infiltration in the S3 group and fat accumulation in the M2 and M3 hearts. Degenerative and apoptotic hepatocytes with vacuolation were observed in the livers, whereas congested arteries were observed in the kidneys. These findings highlight the risks of excess SO and MO intake related to obesity and organ toxicity, suggesting moderation in their use in diets.