Coral fossil: A potential adsorbent of natural source for cadmium removal in broilers

Cadmium (Cd) is a pollutant that poses a health risk for humans and animals. Coral fossil (CF) acts as an adsorbent, yet limited knowledge is available on impacts of CF on Cd toxicities. The work was performed to figure out the effects of CF on hematobiochemical details and specific organs in Cd exposed broilers. The experiment was carried out with 45 broilers and were divided into three groups (15 in each). Group A was served as control. The birds in group B received Cd (75 mg /kg b. w.) orally. Whereas group C was orally supplemented with Cd (75 mg /kg b. w.) and CF (1 gm/kg b. w.). The trial was lasted for 30 days. For hematobiochemical analysis, blood samples were drawn, and sera were separated. Liver, kidney and muscle were collected to assess accumulation concentration. Brain, liver and kidney samples were also collected for histopathological study. The results showed that hematological parameters (TEC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC and DLC) were altered by Cd but restored with CF supplementation. Liver (AST, ALT and ALP) and kidney (total protein and creatinine) biomarkers were increased significantly in Cd treated broilers while decreased significantly after CF supplementation. CF reduced accumulation concentration of Cd in liver, kidney and muscle. Cd intoxicated broilers showed degenerative changes in brain, hyperplastic bile duct and proliferation of renal tubular epithelium with focal degeneration and necrosis; and these were improved after CF supplementation. Therefore, it can be concluded that CF is a potential adsorbent against Cd toxicities.