The influence of chromium(III) and iron(III) on osmotic fragility and iron status parameters in mice

Background: Chromium occurs in nature predominantly in two valence states: hexavalent (chromium VI) and trivalent (chromium III). Trivalent chromium has a role in insulin-dependent carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in mammals and in insulin-receptor activation. Iron(III) is an essential micronutrient playing a key role in oxygen supply. Iron(III) is involved in the synthesis of the oxygen transport protein-hemoglobin, and oxygen storage protein-myoglobin. Moreover, iron(III) is a part of many enzymes, which participates in electron transfer and oxidation-reduction reactions, i.e., ATP production and DNA production. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of simultaneous treating of chromium(III) and iron(III) on osmotic fragility and iron status parameters in mice. Results: In all groups increased minimal, mean, and maximal osmotic fragility of red blood cells (RBCs) were observed, and osmotic fragility curve of erythrocytes was shifted right in parallel manner with increases in the chromium(III) and iron(III) dose. Iron serum concentration is lower in animals exposed to chromium(III). TIBC and index of transferin saturation (ITS) were also reduced following chromium(III) administration. Simultaneous injections of iron(III) and chromium(III) has decreased statistically significant iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) concentration, and percentage of ITS. Conclusions: Chromium (III) reduces iron concentration and the synergistic effect was observed when chromium(III) and iron(III) were used simultaneously.