Protective Role of Vitamin B6 Against Teratogenic Effects Induced by Lead in Chick Embryo

Background: Heavy metals like lead (Pb) have been used by humans for a very long time, but throughout the industrial revolution, their use expanded, increasing exposure to the metal. Lead, however, has no biological purpose in the human body and is hazardous when it gets into soft tissues and organs. Lead is still used in a variety of industries, including battery manufacturing and car maintenance, despite efforts to limit its usage.

Objective: This study investigates the teratogenic and morphometric effects of lead on chick embryos and the potential ameliorative effects of vitamin B6.

Methods: Two hundred fertilized eggs from the golden black chicken were divided into four groups: control, lead acetate, vitamin B6, and lead + vitamin B6.

Results: On the 14th day, embryos were analyzed. Significant reductions in body weight and size were observed in the lead-exposed group (33.93 ± 1.27 g) compared to the control (41.12 ± 0.97 g). Pronounced deformities included rudimentary beaks, protruding eyes, tridactyl limbs, hydrocephaly, and neck deformities. Appendicular deformities like phocomelia, amelia, and abnormal phalanges growth were also noted. Vitamin B6 demonstrated therapeutic benefits, significantly improving mean embryo weight in the Lead + Vitamin B6 group (42.37 ± 0.99 g). The lead-exposed group showed a reduction in maxilla length (3.61 ± 1.30 mm) compared to the Lead + Vitamin B6 group (7.57 ± 0.79 mm). This group also showed reduced severity of muscular dystrophy and bone thinning, with signs of recovery in beak and bone sizes.

Conclusions: The study highlights vitamin B6's beneficial impact in mitigating lead's toxic effects on chick embryonic development.