Effects of postweaning cadmium exposure on socioemotional behaviors in adolescent male mice

Zhengxin Zhang ¹, Yuxin Li ¹, Hao Feng ¹

⁰Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China.

Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety +

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February 14, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Postweaning exposure to cadmium (Cd) harms adolescent male mice, reducing depression resistance and social interaction. These socioemotional changes may stem from alterations in gut microbiota composition.

Area Of Science

Environmental toxicology
Neuroscience
Microbiology

Background

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal and environmental endocrine disruptor with known toxicity.
The impact of Cd exposure on socioemotional behaviors and underlying mechanisms remains unclear.
The brain-gut interaction theory provides a framework for understanding these effects.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the long-term effects of postweaning cadmium exposure on socioemotional behaviors in mice.
To explore the potential mechanisms linking Cd exposure to behavioral changes, focusing on the gut microbiota.
To examine the influence of Cd on depression resistance, social interaction, and sexual preference.

Main Methods

Utilized a series of behavioral tests to assess socioemotional functions in mice.
Employed 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze the composition of the gut microbiota.
Focused on male mice exposed to cadmium during the postweaning period.

Main Results

Cadmium exposure significantly reduced depression resistance in adolescent male mice.
Social interaction was decreased following cadmium exposure.
Subtle alterations in sexual preference were observed.
Changes in the composition of the gut microbiota were identified.

Conclusions

Postweaning cadmium exposure has deleterious effects on socioemotional behaviors during adolescence.
Altered gut microbiota composition is a potential mechanism underlying these behavioral changes.
Findings support the brain-gut interaction theory in the context of environmental toxicant exposure.

Keywords:

Cadmium Environmental endocrine disruptor Gut microbiota Postweaning Socioemotional behavior long-term effects