EEG spectral power alternation & learning disability in rats exposure to lead through prenatal developing age

Introduction: Lead intoxication in children has been associated with neurodevelopment disabilities that may result in motor and cognitive impairment. The aim of the present study is to evaluate in long term effects of prenatal exposure to low-level Pb2+ on learning, memory and EEG. Materials & Methods: Rat pregnant were exposed to distilled water or 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 % of Pb-acetate in the drinking water during of pregnancy. Behavioral analysis was carried out in male offspring by using one way active avoidance. The numbers of electric shock was detected as an index of learning and memory of rats. At 60 days of age (active avoidance learning) and at 90 days of age (memory) behavioral assessment was measured. Then the rats were implanted with electrodes in sensorimotor regain. After a recovery period, EEG was also recorded. Findings: Lead acetate was no affected on learning but dose of 0.1% which was affected on memory of rats (No. of shocks 5.185 ± 0.98%) compared to the control (No. of shocks 1.667 ± 0.62%). This finding also showed that lead acetate (p<0.05) only decreases of memory ability. Except an increase in the delta waves, there was no any statistical signifiucant on EEG spectral power between test and control groups. Conclusion: In this research the lead acetate was no affected on EEG. The results showed that using dose of 0.1% lead acetate was affected on behavior and decrease of memory ability of tested rats.