Biotin as a novel antidote for valproic acid-induces teratogenicity

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted on 100 albino rat fetuses divided into 5 equal groups Group I [negative control group], group II [positive control group], group III [biotin group], group IV [valproic acid group] and group V [valproic acid and biotin group]. Valproic acid administration resulted in a growth retardation of the fetuses manifested by a reduction in body weight and length. There were also multiple teratogenic effects in the form of celeosomia, heart hypoplasia, cleft palate, incomplete ossification of skull bones and absence of some digits of forelimbs. Biotin administration with valproic acid resulted in a significant improvement of the growth rate [weight and length] and a significant reduction in the teratogenic effects caused by valproic acid