The effect of the zeolite clinoptilolite on serum chemistry and hematopoiesis in mice

Zeolites are natural or synthetic crystalline alumosilicates with ion excha nging properties. Supplied in fodder, they promote biomass production and a nimal health. Our aim was to assess the effects of the natural zeolite, cli noptilolite, on hematopoiesis, serum electrolytes and essential biochemical indicators of kidney and liver function in mice. Two preparations differin g in particle size were tested: a powderized form obtained by countercurren t mechanical treatment of the clinoptilolite (MTCp) and normally ground cli noptilolite (NGCp). Young adult mice were supplied with food containing 12. 5, 25 or 50% clinoptilolite powder. Control animals received the same food ration without the clinoptilolite. After 10, 20, 30 and 40 days, six animal s from each group were exsanguinated to obtain blood for hematological and serum for biochemical measurements as well as to collect femoral bone marro w for determination of hematopoietic activity, Clinoptilolite ingestion was well tolerated, as judged by comparable body masses of treated and control animals. A 20% increase of the potassium level was detected in mice receiv ing the zeolite-rich diet, without other changes in serum chemistry. Erythr ocyte, hemoglobin and platelet levels in peripheral blood were not material ly affected. NGCp caused leukocytosis, with concomitant decline of the GM-C FU content in the bone marrow, which was attributed to intestinal irritatio n by rough zeolite particles. The mechanically treated clinoptilolite prepa ration caused similar, albeit less pronounced, changes. III a limited exper iment, mice having transplanted mammary carcinoma in the terminal stage sho wed increased potassium and decreased sodium and chloride levels, severe an emia and leukocytosis, decreased bone marrow cellularity and diminished con tent of hematopoietic progenitor cells in the marrow. The clinoptilolite pr eparations ameliorated the sodium and chloride decline, whereas the effects on hematopoiesis were erratic. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights r eserved.