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Neurobehavioral toxicity of triclosan in mice
Shaghayegh Alizadeh Tabari1, Mahsa Loran Esfahani1, Seyed Mohammad Hosseini2
1Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
Abstract:
Triclosan (TCS) is a broad-spectrum antibacterial compound which is used in many cosmetic products, medical devices and house hold products. Toxicity attributed to TCS has recently become a focus of research. Recent studies showed that TCS can easily migrate into the human brain and animal tissues and cause adverse changes in various target organs. Our knowledge of the neurotoxicity of TCS is largely based on very limited data. In this regard, adult male NMRI mice were administered TCS (1000, 2000, and 4000 mg/kg) by gavage for 14 consecutive days, whereas the control animals were given corn oil. At the end of the exposure, all mice were evaluated for locomotor activity, motor coordination and anxiety behaviors through the use of an open-field test, rotarod test, and elevated-plus maze (EPM) test, and for muscle strength in a grip strength test. A significant change in locomotor activity and coordination was observed in TCS treated mice. In parallel anxiety-like behaviors and muscle strength were affected by TCS. Haematoxylin-eosin staining also showed significant adverse effects in brain tissue of the TCS exposed mice. Based on these results, we conclude that a 14-day TCS exposure resulting in some behavioral disturbances in mice.
Insights
Triclosan (TCS) exposure in mice caused significant behavioral changes, including altered locomotor activity, motor coordination, and anxiety-like behaviors. This study highlights potential neurotoxic effects of TCS on the central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Triclosan (TCS) is a widely used antibacterial agent found in consumer products.
- Emerging research indicates potential neurotoxicity and adverse effects of TCS on various organs.
- Limited data exists on the specific neurotoxic impacts of TCS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurobehavioral effects of sub-chronic Triclosan (TCS) exposure in adult male NMRI mice.
- To evaluate the impact of TCS on locomotor activity, motor coordination, anxiety, and muscle strength.
- To assess histological changes in brain tissue following TCS administration.
Main Methods:
- Adult male NMRI mice were administered varying doses of TCS (1000, 2000, 4000 mg/kg) or corn oil (control) via gavage for 14 days.
- Behavioral assessments included open-field, rotarod, elevated-plus maze (EPM), and grip strength tests.
- Brain tissues were examined using Haematoxylin-eosin staining.
Main Results:
- TCS exposure significantly altered locomotor activity and motor coordination in mice.
- Anxiety-like behaviors and muscle strength were demonstrably affected by TCS treatment.
- Haematoxylin-eosin staining revealed significant adverse changes in the brain tissue of TCS-exposed mice.
Conclusions:
- A 14-day exposure to Triclosan (TCS) can induce notable behavioral disturbances in mice.
- TCS exhibits neurotoxic potential, affecting motor function, coordination, and anxiety levels.
- Histopathological evidence supports adverse effects on brain tissue following TCS exposure.
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