Electroencephalographic and behavioral effects of experimental porphyria in the rat

Abstract

This investigation was made to assess the relationship of allylisopropylacetamide (AIA)-induced porphyria with changes in biochemical, behavioral and central nervous system function. The possible central effect of the porphyrin precursor δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) was also studied. EEG and behavior were observed and urine collected from freely moving female Long-Evans rats with chronically implanted cortical electrodes. A single dose of 400-500 mg/kg of AIA induced a reversible progression of EEG changes characteristics of CNS excitation and elevated urinary levels of ALA and porphobilinogen (PBG). Repeated daily injections of 400 mg/kg of AIA led to a progressive reduction in the duration and degree of EEG and behavioral changes and a reduction of porphyria. ALA, 400 mg/kg, did not produce any abnormal EEG or behavioral effects. © 1970.