Alterations of the Cerebellar Cortical Structure after Aluminum Chloride Perinatal Exposure in Albino Rats. Does Omega-3 Minimize the Noxious Effect of Aluminum?

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 M.B.B.Ch., Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Almergib University , Libya

2 Professor of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine - Zagazig University

3 Professor and head of Anatomy & Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine ;Zagazig University

4 Lecturer of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine - Zagazig University

Abstract

Backgrounds: Aluminum (AL) is a well-known neurotoxin that impedes more than 200 biologically essential tasks, with effects such as reduced cognitive functions and severe behavioral irregularities. Omega-3 fatty acid is an essential nutrient that may antagonize AL-neurotoxicity. Aim of work: the current study aimed to illustrate the possible protective role of omega-3 on perinatal AL exposure on cerebellar cortical structure in albino pups. Materials and methods: After mating, 28 pregnant female rats were divided equally into four groups. All treated groups received drugs from day 14 (D14) of gestation until D21 after birth. The pups of each group were divided into subgroups according to the day of sacrifice, either postnatal D14 or D21. Cerebellum specimens were processed for light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and morphometric, and biochemical studies. Results: There was a significant decrease in weight gain and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and significant increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to the respective groups. The AL-treated groups revealed alteration in the thickness of different cerebellar cortical layers, decrease Purkinje cell count and increase optical density of caspase-3 immunostaining at postnatal D14 and D21. Conclusion: The cerebellar cortical structure revealed marked alterations in albino pups after exposure of their mother to AL during gestation and lactation periods. Omega-3 played a protective role against AL- toxicity.

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Zagazig University Medical Journal
Volume 28, Issue 5
September 2022
Pages 1057-1067

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