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Behavioral and biochemical studies in rats following prenatal treatment with beta-adrenoceptor antagonists

Z Speiser1, I Gordon, M Rehavi

  • 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel.

European Journal of Pharmacology
|March 19, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal exposure to certain beta-blockers like dl-propranolol and sotalol can impair offspring behavior and alter brain receptors. Beta 1-selective antagonists may offer a safer alternative during pregnancy.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists (beta-blockers) are widely used during pregnancy.
  • The effects of different beta-blockers on fetal neurodevelopment are not fully understood.
  • Differential effects of beta-blocker isomers and selectivity on fetal development warrant investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of prenatal exposure to different beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists on offspring behavior and neurochemistry.
  • To determine if beta-1 selective antagonists are safer for fetal neurodevelopment compared to non-selective or beta-2 selective agents.

Main Methods:

  • Pregnant rats were administered dl-propranolol, d-propranolol, sotalol, or atenolol in drinking water during gestation (days 8-22).
  • Offspring behavior was assessed using the active avoidance test.
  • Neurotransmitter receptor density (muscarinic acetylcholine and beta-adrenoceptors) was quantified in specific brain regions (hippocampus, frontal cortex).

Main Results:

  • Offspring exposed to dl-propranolol and sotalol exhibited increased motor activity and impaired avoidance learning.
  • A significant increase in hippocampal muscarinic acetylcholine receptor density was observed in offspring exposed to dl-propranolol and sotalol.
  • A non-significant decrease in frontal cortex beta-adrenoceptors was noted in dl-propranolol-exposed offspring.
  • No behavioral or significant receptor density changes were observed in offspring exposed to atenolol or d-propranolol.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal exposure to non-selective or beta-2 selective beta-blockers may adversely affect fetal neurodevelopment, impacting behavior and receptor expression.
  • The observed behavioral deficits are potentially linked to central beta-2 adrenoceptor blockade.
  • Beta-1 selective beta-blockers, such as atenolol, may represent a safer therapeutic option during pregnancy due to a lack of observed adverse effects on fetal neurodevelopment.

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