The subchronic toxic effects of plant growth promoters in mice

The aim of this study was conducted to subchronic toxic effects separate and combined using of maleic hydrazide and ethephon in female mice. Treatment group divided into 9 groups according to chemicals’ doses and compared with controls. Three separate maleic hydrazide doses (100-200-400 mg/kg/day, in feed) and ethephon (50-100-150 mg/kg/day, in water) were given alone and in combination during 45 days. At the end of the study, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, urea and creatinine levels in blood samples were evaluated. Liver and kidney tissues were taken and examined histopathologically. As a result, alone usages of maleic hydrazide caused liver, kidney toxicity. Toxic effects were clearer in liver; however with ethephon, toxicity was more moderate than maleic hydrazide. In combination, glomerulonephritis were seen in the highest doses. As a result, plant growth promoters could be harmful on kidney and liver. Producers and consumers should become more conscious about the toxic effects of these chemicals.