Project Title: Evaluate the effects of chemicals in herbicides to fundamental biochemical processes in the brain system that influence locomotion and anxiety-like behaviors in rodents
Research overview: We are evaluating the biochemical effects on the fundamental function of the nervous system induced by consumption of chemicals that are used in herbicides. Unfortunately, such chemicals reach water sources, thus affecting aquatic and terrestrial species. For example, glyphosate, the active ingredient in glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH), was initially considered safe for mammals since it exerts its effect by inhibiting a metabolic route not present in mammals. Human case studies highlighted glyphosate’s potential neurotoxicity in patients ingesting GBH. The increased risk of human exposure to chemicals from agriculture and industrial production suggests a link between exposure to environmental toxins, such as GBH, and the development of neurological and emotional disorders. Interestingly, studies in rodents support the toxic effects of glyphosate on brain function. Intranasal application of GBH decreased locomotion and increased anxiety-like behavior. Moreover, intra-peritoneal injections of glyphosate decreased locomotion. Also, GBH given by oral gavage decreased locomotion and increased anxiety. Notably, decreased locomotion correlated with decreased function in the basal ganglia, a set of brain regions needed for locomotion. Also, decreased neurochemicals like serotonin in the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, which is implicated in anxiety, was observed. Previous studies used doses to which humans and animals are unlikely to be exposed. The Environmental Protection Agency establishes the accepted oral exposure level of humans to glyphosate. However, studies of glyphosate in drinking water at this dose and its effect on the neurobiology of locomotion and anxiety-like behavior are lacking.
Techniques:
Skills: The students who compromise to the laboratory will learn basic laboratory skills, from the preparation of solutions, laboratory preservation, notebook keeping, oral presentations, and much more.
Techniques:
- Immunohistochemistry to quantify biochemical markers in brain tissue
- Behavioral analysis in rodents performing tasks related to locomotion and anxiety
- Quantify activity of brain cells that are activated by neurochemical processes, and compare the chemical analysis to locomotion and anxiety-like behaviors in rodents.
Skills: The students who compromise to the laboratory will learn basic laboratory skills, from the preparation of solutions, laboratory preservation, notebook keeping, oral presentations, and much more.