ASSESSMENT OF EMBRYONIC ABNORMALITIES AND OXIDATIVE STRESS CAUSED BY FERROUS SULPHATE AND VITAMIN B12 IN A CHICK MODEL

Abstract

This study assesses embryonic abnormalities and oxidative stress caused by ferrous sulphate (FeSO₄) and vitamin B12 (methyl cobalamin) in a chick model. Iron and vitamin B12 are essential for embryogenesis, supporting oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and neurological development. However, their combined effects remain largely unknown, especially in environmental contexts. Fertilized chick eggs were divided into control, FeSO₄-treated, vitamin B12-treated, and FeSO₄ + vitamin B12-treated groups. After 14 days of incubation, embryos were recovered for morphological and biochemical examination. Morphometric analysis revealed that the combined group exhibited increased developmental abnormalities, including skeletal and organ malformations. Oxidative stress markers such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and antioxidant enzyme levels (SOD, catalase) were elevated in the FeSO₄ + vitamin B12 group. The results suggest that co-administration of ferrous sulphate and vitamin B12 induces synergistic toxicity, intensifying teratogenic outcomes. This research highlights the potential risks of nutrient interaction and oxidative imbalance during embryonic development in an avian model