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Influence of di-butyltin dilaurate on brain neurotransmitter systems and behavior in rats
M S Alam1, R Husain, S P Srivastava
1Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, Lucknow, India.
Abstract:
Exposure to DBTL (20, 40 or 80 mg/kg body weight) caused a decrease in levels of noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) at all treatment levels. Hypothalamus and frontal cortex appeared to be most affected, since levels of all the three amines examined showed changes in these areas. Maximum decrease of DA was found in corpus striatum, NA in pons medulla and of 5-HT in frontal cortex. These animals also showed a decrease in spontaneous locomotor activity and learning at all the doses. The data indicates involvement of hypothalamus and frontal cortical regions of the brain in the neurotoxicity of DBTL.
Insights
Exposure to DBTL decreased key brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, impacting brain regions such as the hypothalamus and frontal cortex. This neurotoxicity also led to reduced activity and learning in the exposed animals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Neurotransmitter imbalances are linked to various neurological disorders.
- Understanding chemical toxicity is crucial for public health and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurotoxic effects of DBTL on neurotransmitter levels.
- To identify the specific brain regions affected by DBTL exposure.
- To assess the impact of DBTL on animal behavior.
Main Methods:
- Administered DBTL at varying doses (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) to animal subjects.
- Measured levels of noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA), and serotonin (5-HT) in brain tissue.
- Assessed spontaneous locomotor activity and learning performance.
Main Results:
- DBTL exposure decreased NA, DA, and 5-HT levels across all doses.
- Hypothalamus and frontal cortex showed significant changes in all three amines.
- Maximal decreases observed: DA in corpus striatum, NA in pons medulla, 5-HT in frontal cortex.
- Reduced spontaneous locomotor activity and impaired learning were dose-dependent.
Conclusions:
- DBTL exhibits neurotoxic properties, affecting key neurotransmitter systems.
- Hypothalamus and frontal cortex are primary targets of DBTL neurotoxicity.
- Observed behavioral changes correlate with neurochemical alterations, indicating functional deficits.