Sensorimotor development of male and female rats subjected to neonatal anoxia

Author(s)

Kumar, Amrita Jha ; Helou, Ammir Yacoub ; Petrucelli, Bruna Arruda ; Xavier, Gilberto Fernando ; Martins, Daniel Oliveira ; Chacur, Marucia ; Nogueira, Maria Ines

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOBIOLOGY; v. 64, n. 7, p. 10-pg., 2022-11-01.

Abstract

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is one of the most important reasons for morbidity and mortality in term-born infants. HIE impacts early somatic, neurological, and motor development including social. To illustrate the damages in the sensorimotor system, an adapted and validated model of neonatal anoxia is used. This study evaluated the sex differences in Wistar rats, neurological reflex, and motor development at the suckling period. Short- and long-term impairments associated with sex differences were observed. In general, anoxic males were more affected in comparison to their control group and to anoxic females. Long-lasting effects of the injury in adolescent rats predominately affected males. Similar to previous studies, we also found a decrease in the number of the substantia nigra cells in both sexes, compared to their control. So far, the results indicate that HIE caused neurobehavioral alterations and asymmetrical motor behavior with brain damage, possibly related to cognitive impairments previously observed at adolescence. These alterations may represent a useful endpoint for studying the efficacy of potential strategies that may improve the developmental consequences of a perinatal asphyxia insult in humans. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/22313-3 - Influence of the absence of maternal melatonin during pregnancy and lactation on neurogenesis and on somatic and sensorimotor development of the offspring.
• Grantee: Lívia Clemente Motta Teixeira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 15/18415-8 - Gender differences in ontogenetic development, behavior and energy metabolism in rats subjected to neonatal anoxia: focus on the hippocampus, hypothalamus, leptin and glia cels
• Grantee: Maria Inês Nogueira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants