Effects of different doses of Arak on liver and kidney microstructures in Swiss albino mice: Histopathological study

Abstract Background: Ethiopia is the most culturally diversified country in which a variety of traditional alcoholic beverages are consumed in different cultures and among others Arak is very popular. The effect of Arak on internal organs structures especially liver and kidney is not well studied even through it is consumed by the people in different parts of the country.Objectives: Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the effects of different doses of Arak on liver and kidney microstructures in Swiss albino mice.Methods: To study the effect of effect of Arak on histology of liver and Kidney, twenty eight (fourteen male and female) newly breaded Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into four groups of two male and female in each. Arak was provided for the experimental groups 20%, 40% and 45% at 1ml/BW of mice daily for six weeks and 1ml/BW of distilled water for control once daily for six weeks. At the end of 42 days each animal was anaesthetized with diethyl ether and tissue sample (Kidney and liver) was collected after the mice sacrificed by cervical dislocation and abdominal cavity was opened anteriorly through midline incision of the abdomen to gain access to internal organs notably Liver and Kidneys. Wet organ was accessioned and immersion fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for histopathological investigation. The qualitative data including histopathological alterations was investigated through preparing microscopic slides which were examined by under light microscope Anatomist and Pathologist (both single blinded to dose and groups).ResultsIn this study, the liver tissue of the control group has a normal histological structure, normal central vein and sinusoidal capillary with no evidence of narrowing, no change in hepatocytes cytoplasm and nucleus. Inflammations and necrosis in the liver tissue of the group of mice administered with 1ml/BW of 20% Arak, 1ml/BW of 40% of Arak and 1ml/BW of 45% of Arak mice was seen under light microscope which degree varies based on concentration of ethanol in the Arak. The kidney tissue of the control group has a normal histological appearance of glomeruli and renal tubules and basement membrane and there was inflammation, swelling, fat accumulation, obscure bowman’s space, foamy appearing and necrosis of renal parenchyma in mice administered with 1ml/BW of 20% Arak, 1ml/BW of 40% of Arak and 1ml/BW of 45% of Arak during the study period.ConclusionsLiver and kidney inflammation, fat drop accumulation and necrosis accompanied by alteration of its functions. The damaging effect was exacerbated as the dose of Arak ethanol concentration was increased. As the world moves towards alcohol control policy, the focus as interventions has to be also given for traditional alcoholic beverages.