Pleiotropic Beneficial Effects of Dietary L-Ascorbic Acid Fortification in Middle-Aged Mice

Background: An enhanced knowledge of the multiple effects of ascorbic acid (AA) in health can broaden our understanding of the impacts of its deficiency. Methods: Mice (10-12 month old) were either fed standard rodent feed or AA-fortified diet at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of feed, respectively for 8 weeks. On completion of the study, animals were sacrificed, following which haematological, inflammatory/apoptotic marker, oxidative stress markers, and markers of hepatic/renal integrity were assessed. Results: Across the groups, AA fortified diet was associated with an increase in food consumption; however, body weight reduction occurred at the lowest concentration, while weight gain was observed at the higher concentrations. Haematological indices (white cell count, granulocytes, lymphocytes, and red cell count) increased at the highest concentration; while some other red cell parameters decreased. A concentration-dependent improvement in antioxidant status, with the greatest benefit at the highest concentration, was observed. Also, a concentration-dependent modulation of inflammatory markers, lipid peroxidation, lipid profile, and biochemical markers of liver and kidney function was observed. Conclusion: Dietary fortification with AA in middle-aged mice impacted several measurable parameters in a concentration dependent manner. In addition to its antioxidant effects, it was also associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.