ABSTRACT

This study investigates the toxicological effects of Sudan III and IV dyes-contaminated palm oil on body weight and total ATPase activity in the liver of Wistar rats. Sudan dyes, widely used as illegal food colorants, pose significant health risks, particularly affecting metabolic and enzymatic functions. Given the central role of ATPase in maintaining cellular ion balance and energy metabolism, this study examines its activity in response to Sudan dye exposure. Thirty-two (32) Wistar albino rats (16 males and 16 females) were randomly assigned to eight groups. Control I (Groups I and II) received a standard diet, while Control II (Groups III and IV) received crude palm oil. The treatment groups were exposed to 480 mg/kg bw of Sudan III (Groups V and VI) or Sudan IV (Groups VII and VIII) in palm oil for six weeks. Body weights were determined weekly and at the end of the study, liver tissue was excised for total ATPase activity analysis. Results revealed significant variations in body weight across groups. Control I Male (Group I) and Control II Male (Group III) exhibited the highest final body weights (189.58 ± 11.15 g and 190.01 ± 6.60 g, respectively), whereas Sudan III Female (Group VI) showed the lowest (132.57 ± 4.65 g, p < 0.05), suggesting a toxic effect of Sudan III on growth. ATPase activity was significantly elevated in Sudan IV Female (Group VIII, 6.86 ± 0.00 µmol Pi/h/mg protein) compared to Control I Female (Group II, 1.52 ± 0.04) and Sudan III Female (Group VI, 1.52 ± 0.00), indicating potential compensatory mechanisms. These findings suggest that Sudan III and IV dyes disrupt metabolic and enzymatic homeostasis, with Sudan III exerting greater effects on body weight and Sudan IV significantly altering ATPase activity. The sex-specific variations underscore the need for further research on gender-based susceptibility. Stricter food safety regulations are essential to prevent Sudan dye contamination and reduce associated health risks.