Résumé:
Acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide, is widely employed in agricultural pest management
due to its high efficacy in targeting insect nervous systems. However, both acute and chronic
exposure to acetamiprid may exert adverse effects beyond target pests, potentially impairing
the immune and endocrine systems in non-target organisms, including mammals.
This study investigates the protective potential of Juniperus phoenicea aqueous extract against
acetamiprid-induced toxicity. We assessed the impact of acetamiprid exposure on immune
function, hormonal balance, and antioxidant defense mechanisms, alongside the ameliorative
effects of juniper extract.
28 female rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=7 each) and administered daily oral
doses of acetamiprid 20 mg/kg/day, Juniperus phoenicea extract 200 mg/kg/day, a combination
of both, or vehicle control for 30 days via gavage.
Results demonstrated that acetamiprid exposure induced significant toxicity characterized by
hyperglycemia, marked body weight loss, and hematological alterations . Endocrine analysis
revealed significant decreases in circulating estrogen and progesterone levels, indicating
hormonal disruption. Furthermore, oxidative stress markers in ovarian and adrenal tissues were
altered, as evidenced by diminished glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity, reduced reduced
glutathione (GSH) levels, and elevated catalase (CAT) enzyme activity, it adversely affects the
morphology of the ovaries and the function of the endocrine glands. Co-administration of
Juniperus phoenicea extract significantly ameliorated these biochemical and physiological
disturbances, restoring hematological parameters, hormonal levels, and antioxidant enzyme
activities toward normal ranges. The protective effects of juniper are likely mediated by its
bioactive phytochemicals exhibiting potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These findings underscore the potential of Juniperus phoenicea as a natural therapeutic agent
to mitigate pesticide-induced toxicity and oxidative damage.
