Histopathology of myocardium of copper-deficient rats administered a toxic dose a cocaine

The present study examined the effects of a single dose of cocaine (Coc) on cardiac ultrastructure in rats fed copper sufficient (Cus) compared to copper deficient (CuD) diets. Weanling males were fed either CuS (n-13) or CuD (n-12) for 7 wk. Ten in each group, (paired for Cu status), were injected (ip) with Coc-HCl (80-90mg/kg bw) 5 served as controls. Rats which survived for >15 min, (CuD 40% CuS (80%) controls), were killed and tissues obtained for histology and Cu analysis. Lower Cu concentrations in heart, liver and serum confirmed the CuD. The hearts were examined by light (Lm) and transmission electron microscopy. Myocardial foci showed necrosis, fibrosis, and inflammation in all given Coc but were more severe in the CuD group. CuS controls (no Coc) showed no similar lesions. Ultrastructural observations supported Lm findings. There was an apparent increase in number of mitochondria (Mito) of variable sizes and shapes. Foci of molding Mito and some with crystalline configuration of cristae were also observed. This was most pronounced in the CuD rats given Coc but absent in CuS animals (no Coc). The data support previous findings of myocardial lesionsin CuD rats the effect of Coc in exacerbation these lesions requiresmore » further elucidation.« less