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The relationships between neuronal activity and behavioral seizures induced by Palicourea marcgravii in rats
S L Gorniak1, H de S Spinosa, E A Cavalheiro
1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, University of Sao Paulo, Brasil.
Abstract:
To characterize the convulsions induced by an aqueous extract of Palicourea marcgravii (Pm), male Wistar rats were injected sc with 3.75 g/kg of the extract, and electroencephalogram and behavior were observed for periods up to 180 min after the Pm injections. Sleep spindles and generalized convulsive seizures were observed following Pm administration. Spiking activity was detected in both cortical and hippocampus recordings. They lasted approximately 2 min and were followed by a period of postical depression and/or death. These results agreed with previous behavioral experiments which suggested the toxic effect of Pm aqueous extract was mainly at the central nervous system level.
Insights
The aqueous extract of Palicourea marcgravii (Pm) induced generalized convulsive seizures and abnormal brain activity in rats. These findings indicate the plant extract primarily affects the central nervous system, leading to toxic effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Palicourea marcgravii (Pm) is a plant with suspected toxic properties.
- Previous behavioral studies suggested central nervous system (CNS) effects of Pm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the electroencephalogram (EEG) and behavioral changes induced by an aqueous extract of Palicourea marcgravii (Pm).
- To investigate the neurotoxic effects of Pm.
Main Methods:
- Male Wistar rats were administered a subcutaneous injection of 3.75 g/kg of Pm aqueous extract.
- EEG and behavior were monitored for up to 180 minutes post-injection.
Main Results:
- Administration of Pm extract resulted in sleep spindles and generalized convulsive seizures.
- Spiking activity was observed in cortical and hippocampal EEG recordings, lasting approximately 2 minutes.
- Seizures were followed by postictal depression and, in some cases, death.
Conclusions:
- The aqueous extract of Palicourea marcgravii induces significant neurological disturbances, including seizures.
- The observed effects confirm the neurotoxic potential of Pm, primarily acting on the central nervous system.
- Further research is warranted to identify the specific compounds responsible for these toxic effects.