In Vivo Toxicological Profile of Sunset Yellow: Triggers of Mammary Tumorigenesis to Breast Cancer and Biochemical Dysregulation

Background Synthetic food dyes, such as Sunset Yellow (SYD), are widely used in processed foods, particularly consumed by children and adolescents. Previous studies have suggested potential toxic and carcinogenic effects associated with azo dyes, including oxidative stress, DNA damage, and organ dysfunction. The present study aimed to evaluate the long-term biochemical and carcinogenic effects of SYD. Method Twenty virgin female rats (7–8 weeks old, 80–85 g) were acclimatized and divided into five groups (n = 4): normal control (NC), positive control treated with 2 mg/kg body weight DMBA (PC), and three experimental groups receiving 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight of SYD (SYD1, SYD2, SYD3). The study spanned 50 weeks, during which body weight was monitored weekly. Blood samples were collected for biochemical (lipid, liver, kidney) and tumor markers (AFP, CA 15 − 3) analysis, and mammary tissues were histologically examined. Results SYD-treated groups exhibited accelerated growth during weeks 5–15, which declined after week 20, indicating a transient stimulatory effect. Biochemical analysis revealed dose-dependent toxicity, with significant increases in cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, SGOT, and SGPT and decreased HDL compared to NC (p < 0.05). Tumor markers AFP and CA 15 − 3 were elevated but lower than DMBA controls. Histopathology showed dose-dependent mammary alterations, from mild hyperplasia and occasional DCIS at 200 mg/kg to multiple DCIS foci, malignant ductules, and collagen deposition at 600 mg/kg. Conclusion Long-term exposure to SYD can cause biochemical toxicity and partial carcinogenic effects, highlighting potential health risks, especially in children and adolescents, requiring cautious consumption.