The combined effect of supplementary Cr(III) propionate complex and iron deficiency on the chromium and iron status in female rats

The aim of the study was to evaluate the combined effect of supplementary chromium(III) and iron deficiency on the chromium and iron status in female rats. The study was carried out on female Wistar rats, which were divided into 6 experimental groups with different Fe levels (deficient 10% RDA and recommended (adequate) 100% RDA). Simultaneously, for six weeks their diets were supplemented with Cr(III) at doses of 1, 50 and 500 mg kg(-1). The tissular chromium and iron levels were measured with the AAS method. The serum iron and TIBC were measured with colorimetric methods The serum ferritin level was measured by means of electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. The serum transferrin level was measured with the ELISA method. The haematology was measured with an automated blood analyser. Supplementary Cr3 increased the Cr content in the tissues. This effect was weaker in the Fe-deficient groups than in those with the recommended Fe level, but it did not affect the Fe status. Fe deficiency significantly reduced the Fe content in the tissues. Simultaneously, Cr3 supplementation mitigated the symptoms of Fe deficiency. Fe deficiency increased TIBC and transfers-in levels but reduced ferritin and most haematological parameters. However, simultaneous addition of high doses of Cr3 did not deepen these adverse changes. Our results show that the trend of changes in the Fe-Cr interaction depends on the content of these elements in the body.