Characterization of mitochondrial bioenergetics in neonatal anoxic model of rats

Neonatal anoxia at the time of birth can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and further neurodevelopmental abnormalities. The present study investigated the mitochondrial bioenergetics and associated sensorimotor changes in the anoxic neonatal rats. Rat pups after 30 h to birth (2 days) were subjected to anoxia of two episodes (10 min in each) at a time interval of 24 h by passing 100 % N2 into an enclosed chamber. Brain mitochondrial respiration was measured using clark type oxygen electrode. A significant decrease in brain respiratory control ratio (RCR; State III/IV respiration) at all-time points, complex I (24 h) and complex II (30 min, 6 and 24 h) enzyme activities indicated loss of mitochondrial integrity and function A significant increase in levels of nitric oxide was observed after second anoxic episode at all-time points. A significant change in sensorimotor activity in terms of increased reflex latency was observed 24 h after second episode in this model, which is an indication of loss of subcortical maturation. All the above changes were observed after second but not after the first anoxic exposure. Therefore, this anoxic model shows significant changes in mitochondrial bioenergetics, nitric oxide levels and sensorimotor effects after second episode of anoxia. This model may be helpful to evaluate mitochondrial targeted pharmacological intervention for the treatment of anoxia.