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Biochemical and behavioral deficits in adult rat following chronic dichlorvos exposure
1Department of Biochemistry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Abstract:
The present study was carried out to assess the biochemical and behavioral sequelae of chronic dichlorvos (6 mg/kg b.wt/day for 8 weeks) exposure in rats. Dichlorvos administration significantly decreased the activities of neuropathy target esterase and other carboxylesterase viz., paraoxon resistant and mipafox and paraoxon resistant esterases. The acetylcholinesterase activity was also appreciably decreased following dichlorvos exposure. The alterations in biochemical parameters were also reflected in the behavioral patterns of dichlorvos-treated animals. Dichlorvos administration caused a marked decrease in both the ambulatory and stereotypic components of spontaneous locomotor activity of rats. The muscle strength and coordination of the dichlorvos-treated animals was also significantly impaired. Besides, a marked deterioration in the memory function assessed in terms of the conditioned avoidance response was discernible at the end of the treatment schedule in the experimental animals.
Insights
Chronic exposure to the pesticide dichlorvos significantly impairs rat brain function, reducing key enzyme activity and causing deficits in motor skills and memory. This highlights the neurotoxic potential of dichlorvos.
Area of Science:
- Neurotoxicology
- Environmental Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Organophosphate pesticides like dichlorvos are widely used, raising concerns about potential neurotoxic effects.
- Understanding the biochemical and behavioral impacts of chronic pesticide exposure is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biochemical and behavioral consequences of chronic dichlorvos exposure in a rat model.
- To assess the impact of dichlorvos on key neurological enzymes and cognitive functions.
Main Methods:
- Rats were administered dichlorvos (6 mg/kg b.wt/day) for 8 weeks.
- Biochemical assays measured neuropathy target esterase, carboxylesterases, and acetylcholinesterase activity.
- Behavioral tests evaluated spontaneous locomotor activity, muscle strength, coordination, and memory (conditioned avoidance response).
Main Results:
- Dichlorvos significantly reduced the activity of neuropathy target esterase, carboxylesterases, and acetylcholinesterase.
- Treated rats exhibited decreased spontaneous locomotor activity (ambulatory and stereotypic components).
- Impaired muscle strength, coordination, and a marked deterioration in memory function were observed.
Conclusions:
- Chronic dichlorvos exposure induces significant biochemical alterations in the nervous system.
- These biochemical changes correlate with observable behavioral impairments, including motor deficits and memory loss.
- The findings underscore the neurotoxic risks associated with prolonged dichlorvos exposure.