Acute Inhalation of Generator Exhaust-Fumes May Impair Learning and Memory in Mice

Abstract

The study assessed the effects of acute inhalation of generator exhaust fumes on the anxiety-associated learning and memory (L&M), and motor coordination in mice. Twenty-four mice were divided into 4 groups. First and second groups were tested for motor coordination (beam walk) and L&M (Elevated Plus Maze, EPM) respectively. Mice in the experimental groups were exposed to the generator fume for 30min., 1hr., and 2hrs respectively before the tests. In Day 1, experimental animals showed significant decrease in the mean TL (13.4 ± 1.5sec.) and an increase (73 ± 8.4sec.) at 30min. and 1hr respectively, when compared to their controls (28.6 ± 5.2sec.) and (21.8 ± 4.4sec.). In day 2, there were significant increase in the mean TLs during the 30min. (48.4 ± 12.8sec.) and 2hrs exposures (66.8 ± 15.3 sec.), when compared to their controls (13.6 ± 1.9sec.) and (22.6 ± 6.6sec.) respectively. The result suggests decreased ability of the exposed mice to learn and recall the new behaviour. There was significant increase in the mean %COHb level of the experimental group (2.06 ± 0.012%) when compared to the control (0.76 ± 0.089%). Exposure to CO from the generator exhaust fumes impaired learning and memory in mice.

Keywords: Carbon monoxide, Learning and Memory, Motor coordination, Elevated Plus Maze, Beam walk.