Related Experiment Videos
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen on rat embryos
D Sapunar1, M Saraga-Babić, M Peruzović
1Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Republic of Croatia.
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) exposure in pregnant rats did not cause birth defects but reduced fetal weight and increased placental weight, indicating specific embryotoxic effects. This study highlights the impact of high-pressure oxygen on fetal development.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Oxygen Therapy
Background:
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is used for various medical conditions.
- Potential risks of HBO exposure during pregnancy require thorough investigation.
- Understanding the impact of HBO on embryonic and fetal development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the toxic effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on rat embryos.
- To determine if HBO exposure induces embryonic abnormalities or affects fetal growth.
- To assess changes in fetal and placental weight following HBO treatment.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant Fischer rats were exposed to hyperbaric oxygen (324 and 426 kPa) or normobaric oxygen during critical gestation periods (days 8-12).
- Control groups included intact and sham-treated animals.
- Maternal weight gain, litter size, embryonic abnormalities, fetal body weight, and placental weight were assessed.
Main Results:
- HBO exposure at 324 and 426 kPa did not significantly affect maternal weight gain or litter size.
- No significant embryonic abnormalities were induced by HBO treatment.
- A notable reduction in fetal body weight and an increase in placental weight were observed in HBO-exposed groups.
- Specific reductions in fetal wet weights were 9.2-12.1% for females and 11.7-16.6% for males.
- Placental weights increased by 18.9-23.6% in response to HBO exposure.
Conclusions:
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) at 324 or 426 kPa is not potent in inducing malformations in rat embryos.
- The primary embryotoxic effects observed were reduced fetal body weight and increased placental weight.
- These findings suggest that while HBO may not cause gross malformations, it can impact fetal growth and placental development.