Morphological and Neurological Impairments Induced by Chronic Administration of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a widely used solvent in research and medicine.
• Its potential long-term effects on the nervous system require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of chronic DMSO administration on neurological functions.
• To assess changes in pain sensitivity, motor coordination, and myelin content in the corpus callosum.

Main Methods:

• C57BL/6 mice were administered DMSO in drinking water at 0.01%, 0.1%, and 1% concentrations for 4 and 6 weeks.
• Pain sensitivity was measured using the tail flick test.
• Motor coordination was assessed using the rotarod test.
• Myelin content in the corpus callosum was quantified.

Main Results:

• DMSO administration, across all tested concentrations and durations, decreased myelin content in the corpus callosum.
• Both 4-week (0.1% DMSO) and 6-week (1% DMSO) treatments significantly improved motor coordination (increased latency to fall).
• Pain sensitivity was modulated, with some DMSO concentrations increasing tail flick latency and others decreasing it.

Conclusions:

• Chronic exposure to DMSO, even at low concentrations, negatively affects myelin content in the corpus callosum.
• DMSO can alter motor coordination and pain perception in mice, suggesting neurotoxic or neuroactive properties.
• Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms behind these observed neurological changes.