Changes in mouse behavior induced by fetal exposure to diagnostic ultrasound

Pregnant Swiss albino mice were exposed to diagnostic ultrasound (3.5 MHz, 65mw, ISPTP = 1 W/cm2, ISATA = 240 W/cm2) for 10 min on day 14, 16 or 17 of gestation to assess any changes in physiological reflexes (pinna detachment, eye opening and fur development) and postnatal mortality. Changes in locomotor activity by open field test and dark/bright arena test and learning and memory by hole board test were also recorded. No change was observed in physiological reflexes and postnatal mortality. However there were significant alterations in behavior in all the three exposed groups. These results demonstrate that ultrasound exposure during the late fetal period can impair brain function in adult mouse.