Objective: To explore the interaction role of selenium and zinc in diet on bone development in rats exposed to lead, and to observe the change of bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD).
Methods: Wean male Wistar rats were fed with diet added with different levels of selenium, zinc and lead for 12 weeks.
Results: Long-term exposure to lead may inhibit the development of bone and reduce BMC and BMD, however, selenium and zinc in the diets could improve the inhibit effect of lead on weight and length, BMC and BMD of rat bone.
Conclusion: The present study indicated that supplementing suitable amount of selenium or/and zinc could interact the side effect of lead, and increase the BMC and BMD of rat bone. The interaction mechanism of iron and zinc on bone exposed to lead in diets needs to be explore in further.