Effects of dengue virus infection on peripheral blood cells of mice exposed to hexavalent chromium with drinking water
Shrivastava, R.; Srivastava, S.; Upreti, R.K.; Chaturvedi, U.C.
Indian Journal of Medical Research 122(2): 111-119
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5340 PMID: 16177467 Document Number: 593450
Background and objectives: The occupational and non-occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is common. Exposure to Cr compromises the immune response of the host. Dengue virus (DV) infection causes various changes in the peripheral blood cells. It is, therefore, possible that the chromium toxicity may affect the disease process during DV infection. This study investigated the effects of DV infection on the peripheral blood cells of mice given drinking water containing Cr(IV). Methods: One group of mice was given ad libitum drinking water containing Cr(VI), and the other group was given plain drinking water (controls). At 3, 6 and 9 weeks post-exposure to Cr(VI), a set of mice from each group was inoculated intracerebrally with DV, and examined at 4 and 8 days post-inoculation. Results: Exposure to Cr(VI) led to reduction in lymphocyte, haemoglobin and haematocrit values, while granulocyte, monocyte and platelet counts were increased. Most of the parameters were decreased following inoculation of normal mice with DV. In Cr(VI)-exposed mice, the effects of DV infection were minimal. The reduction in platelet counts following inoculation with DV was markedly less in Cr(VI)-exposed mice than that in control mice. Conclusion: Cr VI is a potent occupational carcinogen. On the contrary, Cr(III) salts such as chromium polynicotinate, chromium chloride and chromium picolinate, are used as micronutrients and nutritional supplements, and have been shown to exhibit health benefits in animals and humans. The ability of therapeutic doses of Cr(III) compounds to prevent DV-induced reduction in platelet counts needs to be investigated.