Experimental Study on Neurodegeneration Induced by Aluminum Overload in Mice

Objective To explore the dose-effect and time-effect relationship of neurodegenerationinduced by aluminum overload and the changes of relative parameters in mice.Methods An animal model was established by icv trace AlCl_3 into mouse lateral ventricle.The passive avoidance learning and spatial learning abilities of mice,cholinesterase(ChE)and monoaminoxidase B(MAOB)activities and pathomorphological changes in hippocampi,as well as the magnesium(Mn)levels in brain were evaluated.Results Overload aluminum significantly shortened step-down latency and prolonged platform-seeking time,increased the activities of ChE and MAOB in hippocampi,caused karyopyknosis and loss of hippocampal neurons,and raised Mn level of brain.The learning and memory functions of mice in the experimental groups were markedly damaged.Conclusions The aluminum overload could obviously induce neurodegeneration and learning and memory disorders of mice.All changes above are at least related to increasing activities of ChE and MAOB,as well as promoting Mn level in brain.