Prenatal Exposure to L-Citrulline Has Positive Effects on Reflexive Motor Behavior in Newborn Mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• L-citrulline (L-cit) is an amino acid influencing neurotransmitters and fetal growth.
• Limited data exists on L-cit's impact on reflexive motor behavior in offspring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of prenatal L-citrulline exposure on the reflexive motor behavior of mouse offspring.
• To assess the impact of L-citrulline on biochemical markers related to oxidative stress and nitric oxide production.

Main Methods:

• Pregnant mice received L-citrulline (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) or water during gestation.
• Offspring reflexive motor behaviors were evaluated using standardized tests (e.g., ambulation, grip strength, geotaxis).
• Serum levels of nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured.

Main Results:

• Prenatal L-citrulline exposure improved offspring ambulation, grip strength, and suspension behaviors.
• L-citrulline supplementation decreased surface righting time, hind-limb foot angle, and negative geotaxis in pups.
• Maternal L-citrulline increased serum NO and antioxidant enzyme (SOD, GPx) levels while decreasing MDA in offspring.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal L-citrulline administration positively influences reflexive motor behaviors in mouse offspring.
• L-citrulline may enhance neurodevelopment and mitigate oxidative stress during prenatal development.
• Findings suggest L-citrulline as a potential factor for improving offspring neurobehavioral outcomes.