ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of succimer against lead induced neurotoxicity in developing brain of rats. Methodology: Healthy albino Wistar rats were segregated into four groups, Control (receives normal water), Lead (100 ppm through drinking water), Lead+Succimer (100 ppm + 50 mg kg-1 b.wt. day-1) and succimer alone (50 mg kg-1 b.wt. day-1). Doses were started from the first day of pregnancy confirmed and continued till day 30 post-natal pups. The 1st, 15th, 30th day post-natal pups were used for oxidative stress markers assessment, histological study, whereas 15th, 30th day pups were used for behavioral assessment. Results: Lead treated rats showed lowered motor coordination, thermal and mechanical pain sensitivity when compared to control group and these responses reversed on treatment with succimer (p< 0.01). Lead treated rats showed a significant (p< 0.01) decrease in CAT, SOD activity and GSH levels, while LPO and GSSG levels were increased as compared to control group, and succimer treatment reversed the altered oxidative metabolism. Lead treated rats showed a decrease in number of branches in neurons and branching of neuronal networks. The number of branches and branching of neuronal networks were reverted on treatment with succimer. Interpretation: This study concludes that succimer has considerable therapeutic value against lead induced neurotoxicity along with neurodegeneration with its chelation as well as anti-oxidant properties reverse neuro-behavioral alterations, oxidative stress and histological impairments caused with lead during pre- and post-natal exposure to rats.