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Mechanisms involved in the neurotoxic and cognitive effects of developmental methamphetamine exposure

Sarah A Jablonski1, Michael T Williams1, Charles V Vorhees1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Birth Defects Research. Part C, Embryo Today : Reviews
|June 15, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Neonatal methamphetamine exposure causes significant neurotoxicity, leading to lasting cognitive deficits and altered brain function. This study investigates its impact on behavior, neurotransmission, and DNA damage.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Toxicology
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • In utero methamphetamine exposure causes cognitive deficits like attention and memory impairments.
  • The timing of exposure to teratogens significantly influences neuroanatomical and behavioral outcomes.
  • Third-trimester equivalent methamphetamine exposure in rodents leads to spatial navigation deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of neonatal methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity.
  • To examine impacts on behavioral outcomes, neurotransmission, and receptor changes.
  • To assess alterations in plasticity proteins and DNA damage.

Main Methods:

  • Rodent models were used to study neonatal methamphetamine exposure.
  • Behavioral assessments were conducted to evaluate cognitive functions.
  • Neurotransmission, receptor binding, plasticity proteins, and DNA damage were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Neonatal methamphetamine exposure resulted in significant neurotoxicity.
  • Observed were alterations in neurotransmission and receptor expression.
  • Changes in plasticity proteins and DNA damage were detected, indicating long-term effects.

Conclusions:

  • Neonatal methamphetamine exposure has profound and lasting neurotoxic effects.
  • These effects manifest as behavioral deficits and molecular changes in the brain.
  • Further research is needed to understand the full spectrum of developmental impacts.

Keywords:
developmental neurotoxicitydopaminemethamphetamineneonatal exposure

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