Selenium Mitigates Prenatal Lead-Induced Toxicity on Cerebral Cortex of Wistar Rats Pups

Abstract Lead is a dangerous substance to the body that particularly targets the central nervous system (CNS), especially during the early stages of development. Unfortunately, classical therapies remain inefficient in mitigating neurotoxicity associated with developmental Pb exposure on brain regions. However, co-occurring selenium, and heavy metals are known to reduce each other's effects. In this study, the counteractive impact of selenium (Se) to the toxic effects of Pb on the developing rat brain was investigated to explore early protection against developmental disruption of the cerebral cortex by Pb using Wistar rat model. Pregnant rats were grouped into 3 group of 3 animals each. Group 1 served as control and received 2ml distilled water, group 2 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and group 3 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and 0.3 mg/kg bwt of Se. Administration was orally from gestation day 9 till parturition. On PND 1, and 21, brain tissues were harvested for biochemical and histopathological (histochemical and histological) studies. Observations show that lead accumulated in the brain of pups in an inverse relationship with calcium. Pups in the group administered only Pb, showed evidence of serious necrosis, and neuronal degeneration when compared with the control group and the group co-administered Se and Pb. Hence, the gestational neurotoxic effect of Lead on the cerebral cortex can be mitigated by Se. Our findings show that Selenium, an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance for animals and humans, might be beneficial in lead toxicity therapy.