Protective Effect of Vitamin C Against the Paraquat-Mediated Toxic Effects on Different Morphometric and Biochemical Parameters in Chick Embryos of Gallus Domesticus

Abstract

Paraquat is a toxic herbicide that controls weeds but causes environmental harm and biodiversity loss due to prolonged exposure. Its toxicity results from reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage. Vitamin C, an essential nutrient and potent antioxidant, helps to protect cells from free radical-induced damage. This work investigates the efficiency of vitamin C in reducing or eliminating the harmful effects of Paraquat on various morphometric and Biochemical parameters in chick embryos of Gallus domesticus. A total of 120 fertilized Gallus domesticus (BV Vencobb) eggs were randomly divided into four groups: Control (untreated), Sham Control (vehicle-treated with distilled water), Paraquat-treated, and Paraquat plus Vitamin C-treated group. They were incubated at 37±0.5°C with 60-70% humidity and proper ventilation. The control group consisted of untreated eggs, while the sham (vehicle) group received 0.1 ml of distilled water. The treatment group was administered paraquat (PQ) at a dose of 0.05 ml per egg, and the protective group received a combination of PQ (0.05 ml) and Vitamin C (0.1 ml) per egg on the 10th day of incubation. All substances were administered into the egg via the injection method using a sterile insulin needle.

On day 18, embryos from all groups were assessed for morphometric parameters such as mortality rate, morphometric malformations, crown-rump length, wet body weight, and biochemical parameters such as protein, cholesterol, and glycogen. Results of the present study showed that the mortality rate and the number of surviving embryos having deformities were significantly increased in the Paraquat-exposed group as compared to the control group. The crown-rump length and wet body weight showed a significant (**p ≤ 0.01) decline in the treated groups. In addition, the tested Herbicide (PQ 0.05 ml/egg) caused a significant decrease (**p ≤ 0.01) in Protein and Glycogen levels, with notable increases in the total cholesterol content. The vitamin C-supplemented group showed signs of recovery in maintaining the overall morphology and Biochemistry of developing chick embryos against Paraquat. The findings show that even low concentrations of the pesticide can harm embryos and threaten life. The study highlights vitamin C's protective role in reducing Paraquat's toxic effects, suggesting that supplementation may help mitigate damage to morphological and biochemical parameters