Neurobehavioral Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Solid Air Freshener in Mice

Background: Air fresheners are products with fragrances used to mask unpleasant odor in the environment. However, air fresheners contain diverse chemical substances that pose health challenges to the users; hence are of public health significance. Although previous studies have shown that air fresheners affect the lungs, liver and reproductive organs, the neurobehavioral effects of these agents are yet to be evaluated in details. This study evaluated the neurobehavioral effects and biochemical changes in mice exposed to a solid commercially available air freshener (SAF). Methods: Male Swiss mice were divided into 6 groups (n = 7). Mice in groups 2-6 were exposed to powdered SAF (10, 25, 50, 100 and 200 g) via inhalation in their cages for 28 days. Mice in group 1 (control) were not exposed to SAF. The neurobehavioral changes: spontaneous motor activity (SMA), memory, anxiety and depression were evaluated on day 28. The mice brains were then proccessed for determination of malondialdehyde, nitrite, glutathione contents, and the activities of catalase and acetyl-cholinesterase. Results:  SAF (25-200g) significantly (p<0.05) impaired SMA compared with control. Mice exposed to SAF exhibited increased anxiety and depression-like symptoms relative to control (p<0.05). It also impaired memory and increased acetylcholinesterase activity (p<0.05). Moreover, SAF increased the levels of nitrite and malondialdehyde accompanied by decreased antioxidant molecules (glutathione and catalase) in mouse brain. Conclusion: These findings suggest that SAF produced neurobehavioral deficits, increased oxidative stress and altered cholinergic system, posing potential health hazards to the regular consumers.