Authors
Info
K. Sudhakar, C. H.
Deepaktarun,
G.B. Bhavya and
K.P. Reddy*
Neuroscience Lab, Department of Zoology,
Osmania University, Hyderabad,
Telangana-500 007, India
*Corresponding Author Email :
pratapkreddyou@gmail.com
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Abstract
Aim: The aim of this
study was to evaluate the protective effects of succimer against lead induced
neurotoxicity in developing brain of rats.
Methodology: Healthy albino
Wistar rats were segregated into four groups, Control (receives normal
water), Lead (100 ppm through drinking water), Lead+Succimer (100 ppm + 50 mg
kg-1 b.wt. day-1) and succimer alone (50 mg kg-1
b.wt. day-1). Doses were started from the first day of pregnancy
confirmed and continued till day 30 post-natal pups. The 1st, 15th,
30th day post-natal pups were used for oxidative stress markers
assessment, histological study, whereas 15th, 30th day
pups were used for behavioral assessment.
Results: Lead treated rats
showed lowered motor coordination, thermal and mechanical pain sensitivity
when compared to control group and these responses reversed on treatment with
succimer (p< 0.01). Lead treated rats showed a significant (p< 0.01)
decrease in CAT, SOD activity and GSH levels, while LPO and GSSG levels were
increased as compared to control group, and succimer treatment reversed the
altered oxidative metabolism. Lead treated rats showed a decrease in number
of branches in neurons and branching of neuronal networks. The number of
branches and branching of neuronal networks were reverted on treatment with
succimer.
Interpretation: This study
concludes that succimer has considerable therapeutic value against lead
induced neurotoxicity along with neurodegeneration with its chelation as well
as anti-oxidant properties reverse neuro-behavioral alterations, oxidative
stress and histological impairments caused with lead during pre- and
post-natal exposure to rats.
Key
words:
Anti-oxidants, Lead, Neurodegeneration,
Neurotoxicity, Succimer
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