The effect of maternal exposure to methamphetamine during pregnancy and lactation period on hippocampal neurons apoptosis in rat offspring

AbstractMethamphetamine (METH) is a highly addictive stimulant. The effect of maternal exposure of METH on apoptosis in rat hippocampus was evaluated. Wistar rats were randomly divided into: 1&2) Rats were given METH during pregnancy or breastfeeding (5 mg/kg i.p.), 3&4) Rats injected with normal saline and 5&6) Rats served as control. TUNEL method was used to evaluate apoptotic cells. Mean number of apoptotic cells was significantly increased in CA1, CA3 and DG regions. The CA1 field was significantly improved in the experimental pregnancy and breastfeeding groups. The study showed that METH causes apoptosis in all three hippocampal fields, especially CA1 region.