Subacute Iron Exposure in Rats Induces Behavioral Impairments, Oxidative Stress, and Histopathological Alterations

Iron overload can compromise brain integrity, leading to behavioral, biochemical, and structural disturbances. In this study, male Wistar rats received intraperitoneal injections of ferrous sulfate (10 mg/kg) once daily for five consecutive days to model subacute iron exposure. Behavioral assessments using the Open Field Test (OFT), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), Free Exploration Test (FET), and Light/Dark Box (LDB) revealed increased anxiety-like behaviors, reduced exploratory activity, and heightened immobility. Biochemical analyses demonstrated significant elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), indicating oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defense. Histopathological examination of the cerebellum, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and striatum revealed neuronal misalignment, vacuolation, and early signs of neurodegeneration. Together, these findings demonstrate that short-term repeated iron exposure can induce measurable neurobehavioral alterations and oxidative damage associated with structural brain changes. These results underscore the need for caution in managing iron homeostasis, particularly in conditions prone to iron dysregulation.