Exposure of pregnant mice to aluminum and restraint stress: Effects on postnatal development and behavior of the offspring

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess in mice the potential influence of maternal restraint stress and aluminum (Al) on the postnatal development and behavior of the offspring. On Days 6-15 of gestation, two groups of pregnant mice received intraperitoneal injections of AlCl3 at 75 mg/kg/day. One of these groups was also subjected to restraint for 2 h per day during the same days of gestation. Control groups included restrained and unrestrained pregnant mice nonexposed to Al. No significant differences between the groups were noted on maternal food consumption, total body weight change, maternal body weight at termination, or length of gestation. All the animals were allowed to deliver and wean their offspring. The pups were evaluated for physical development and neuromotor maturation. Moreover, open-field activity, motor resistance and coordination, and passive avoidance were also determined on postnatal Days 22, 30, and 60, respectively. The results show that, although an influence of maternal restraint on Al-induced postnatal developmental effects could be observed, the behavior of the offspring was not significantly affected.