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Behavioral effects of lead and Toxocara canis in mice
Abstract:
Adult mice were administered the common parasite Toxocara canis or lead or both. The parasite clearly altered mouse performance on tests of exploration, activity, learning, and motor coordination; behavioral effects in mice receiving lead alone were less general. Consequence of Toxocara administration appeared attenuated in animals receiving both agents. Parasite larvae were found in the central nervous system in all infected mice.
Insights
The parasite Toxocara canis significantly impacted mouse behavior, affecting exploration, learning, and motor skills. Co-administration with lead appeared to lessen these toxic effects, though larvae were found in the brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroparasitology
- Toxicology
- Behavioral Neuroscience
Background:
- The common roundworm parasite, Toxocara canis, is a known neurotoxin.
- Lead exposure is also a significant neurotoxin with widespread effects.
- The combined effects of T. canis and lead on behavior are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the individual and combined effects of Toxocara canis infection and lead exposure on adult mouse behavior.
- To determine if lead exposure alters the behavioral consequences of T. canis infection.
- To examine the distribution of T. canis larvae in the central nervous system following co-exposure.
Main Methods:
- Adult mice were experimentally infected with T. canis larvae.
- Mice were exposed to lead acetate in their drinking water.
- Behavioral assessments included tests for exploration, activity, learning, and motor coordination.
- Histological examination was performed to locate parasite larvae in the central nervous system.
Main Results:
- T. canis infection alone caused significant alterations in exploration, activity, learning, and motor coordination.
- Lead exposure alone resulted in less generalized behavioral effects compared to the parasite.
- Mice exposed to both T. canis and lead showed attenuated behavioral consequences compared to those infected with the parasite alone.
- T. canis larvae were detected in the central nervous system of all infected mice, regardless of lead exposure.
Conclusions:
- Toxocara canis infection profoundly impacts multiple domains of mouse behavior.
- Lead exposure may modulate the behavioral effects of T. canis infection, potentially through an interaction within the central nervous system.
- The presence of parasite larvae in the CNS highlights a direct mechanism for neurobehavioral disruption.