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Related Experiment Videos

Diazepam effects on the fetus.

M Schlumpf1, H Ramseier, H Abriel

  • 1Institute of Pharmacology, University of Zurich, Switzerland.

Neurotoxicology
|January 1, 1989
PubMed
Summary
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Prenatal exposure to diazepam (a benzodiazepine) transiently impaired offspring behavior and immune responses. Adult offspring showed increased sensitivity to diazepam and morphine, with immune effects dependent on gestational exposure timing.

Area of Science:

  • Neuropharmacology
  • Developmental Toxicology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, are commonly prescribed medications.
  • Prenatal exposure to certain drugs can have lasting effects on offspring development.
  • The presence and function of benzodiazepine receptors in the developing fetus are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of prenatal diazepam exposure on offspring behavior and immune function in rats.
  • To determine the impact of gestational timing of exposure on these effects.
  • To explore the role of central and peripheral benzodiazepine binding sites in mediating prenatal drug effects.

Main Methods:

  • Time-pregnant rats (Long Evans and Sprague Dawley) were administered diazepam or clonazepam during specific gestational periods (GD 14-20 or GD 12-16).

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  • Offspring were assessed for olfactory-guided behavior (nest odor), sensitivity to diazepam (temperature depression), and sensitivity to morphine (tail flick test).
  • Cellular immune responses were evaluated in offspring up to 2 months of age.

    • Main Results:

    • Prenatal diazepam exposure caused transient depression of olfactory behavior in suckling offspring.
    • Adult offspring exhibited enhanced sensitivity to diazepam and, in females, to morphine.
    • Treatment from GD 16-20, but not GD 12-16, significantly depressed cellular immune responses in both male and female offspring.

    Conclusions:

    • Prenatal exposure to diazepam can lead to long-lasting behavioral and immunological alterations in offspring.
    • The timing of gestational exposure is critical for the development of immune system deficits.
    • These findings highlight the importance of considering the presence and functionality of benzodiazepine binding sites during fetal development.