Effects of Gasoline Fume Inhalation on Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Pulmonary Histopathology in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Exposure to volatile Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) fumes, common in petrol stations and high-traffic areas, has been linked to organ damage. This study evaluates PMS fume exposure's impact on oxidative biomarkers and pulmonary cytoarchitecture. Twenty adult female Wistar rats (130–210 g) were divided into four groups (n=5): a control group and three exposure groups subjected to petrol fume inhalation for 4, 6, or 8 hours daily over 14 days. Histopathological analysis of lung tissues revealed significant alterations. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased (P<0.05) across exposure groups, indicating elevated lipid peroxidation, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities declined significantly (P<0.05), suggesting antioxidant system impairment. Structural lung changes included alveolar shrinkage and abnormal bronchiolar epithelial lining. These findings demonstrate that PMS fume inhalation disrupts oxidative balance and pulmonary integrity, with deleterious effects occurring even at minimal exposure durations.