Assessment of Respiratory and Reproductive Impacts of Artisanal Refinery Activity on Male Albino Wistar Rats: Implications for Environmental Health

Abstract

Background Artisanal refinery operations can produce a significant volume of air pollutants, among which are carbon soot particulate matter. Although these operations are widespread, especially in developing countries, the impact of exposure to carbon soot particulate matter on both respiratory and reproductive health remains poorly understood. Objective In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of controlled exposure to carbon soot particulate matter on the respiratory and reproductive systems of male albino Wistar rats. To simulate the exposure conditions found in artisanal refineries, we developed an experimental setup where rats were exposed to different concentrations of carbon soot particulate matter for 28 days. Results Respiratory health was evaluated by examining the cytoarchitecture of the lungs and quantifying inflammatory markers, including Tumour-Necrosis-Factor alpha (TNF-α), as well as oxidative stress parameters such as Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in the lungs. Haematological parameters were also assessed. The reproductive impact was investigated through a thorough analysis of the cytoarchitecture of the testis. Conclusions Our study provides valuable insights into the health risks associated with exposure to carbon soot particulate matter, thus underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulatory measures to control air pollution in areas surrounding artisanal refineries.