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Diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate (DFP) disrupts circadian activity patterns.
Neurobehavioral Toxicology and Teratology
|July 1, 1983
Summary
A single dose of diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate (DFP) significantly reduced rat activity, with running behavior remaining suppressed long-term. While feeding and lever pressing recovered, circadian rhythms for all activities were disrupted.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate (DFP) is an organophosphate known for its neurotoxic effects.
- Understanding the long-term behavioral consequences of acute DFP exposure is crucial for assessing its impact on motor control and daily rhythms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chronic effects of a single DFP dose on various behavioral activities in rats.
- To analyze the impact of DFP on circadian patterns of activity.
Main Methods:
- Rats received a single subcutaneous dose of DFP (1.75 mg/kg).
- Continuous 24-hour monitoring of wheel running, lever pressing, and feeding behavior in modified activity cages.
- Analysis of daily activity totals and circadian distribution of behaviors post-injection.
Main Results:
- A marked reduction in all monitored activities was observed in the first 24 hours post-DFP.
- Food intake and lever pressing recovered to pre-injection levels within days.
- Wheel running remained significantly suppressed throughout the experimental period.
- Circadian analysis revealed persistent phase shifts and reduced amplitude in all activities.
Conclusions:
- Acute DFP exposure causes immediate, broad behavioral suppression.
- While some behaviors recover, running activity shows prolonged suppression.
- DFP significantly disrupts the circadian organization of behavior, indicating lasting neurological impact.