Effects of time course ferrous sulphate supplementation on iron regulation in pregnant rats

OBJECTIVES: Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of ferrous sulphate supplementation on iron regulation and homeostasis in pregnant rats. METHODS: Twenty-four pregnant rats were divided into four groups; including the control (untreated) pregnant group and the pregnant groups that received ferrous sulphate starting at the 1st trimester (1st day of pregnancy), 2nd trimester (8th day of pregnancy), and 3rd trimester (15th day of pregnancy). Ferrous sulphate was administered orally with an oral gavage until birth. Serum iron and total iron binding capacity were measured by a colorimetric method. Hepcidin levels were measured using an immunoassay method. RESULTS: The serum iron, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin levels were significantly increased in the group given iron sulphate in the 3rd trimester compared with the 2nd or 1st trimesters and in the 3rd trimester compared with the 2nd trimester (p < 0.05). The total iron binding capacity levels were significantly decreased in the group that received iron sulphate in the 1st trimester compared with the 2nd or 3rd trimesters (p < 0.05). The total iron binding capacity levels were also significantly decreased in the group that received iron sulphate in the 2nd trimester compared with the 3rd trimester (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Early administration of ferrous sulphate in pregnancy leads to higher levels of serum iron, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin.