Modified Natural Clinoptilolite Alleviates Cadmium-Induced Toxicity in Icr Albino Mice

For the first time, this study investigates in vivo the potential of Na-modified natural clinoptilolite to mitigate cadmium toxicity in ICR mice, a model relevant to human health. We enhanced natural clinoptilolite to improve its Cd2+ exchange capacity. Mice were exposed to environmentally realistic Cd(NO3)2 doses in their drinking water. The detoxification efficacy of the mineral was evaluated over 45 days in four groups: control (no supplementation), Cd(NO3)2 only, clinoptilolite only, and a combination of Cd(NO3)2 and clinoptilolite. We assessed Cd bioaccumulation in the liver and kidneys, genotoxicity (micronucleus assay), hematological parameters, and oxidative stress markers. Cd exposure resulted in significant bioaccumulation, reduced growth, changes in the erythrogram, DNA damage, and oxidative stress. Mice receiving clinoptilolite alone showed a significant increase in body mass. Modified clinoptilolite led to nearly a 48% reduction in Cd accumulation and a 30% increase in Cd-excretion in the Cd-plus-clinoptilolite group compared to the Cd-only group. Erythrogram and leukogram parameters returned to near-normal levels, with reductions in malondialdehyde (MDA) and increases in glutathione (GSH) observed by the end of the experiment. No elevated levels of micronuclei were found following zeolite supplementation. These results suggest modified clinoptilolite may be a cost-effective detoxifier in Cd-polluted regions.