Abstract
Hyperthermia was investigated in adult male albino rats exposed to high temperature (40 +/- 1 degrees C) for 12 hours. Twenty male rats 3 months old were used. They were divided into two groups and separated into two rooms. The rats in the first room were subjected to hyperthermia (40+/-1 degrees C), while rats of the control group were maintained under normal environmental conditions (25+/-5 degrees C). Neural response to heat exposure was assessed by determining the levels of dopamine, nor adrenaline and serotonin in the brain homogenate. Serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium) were also evaluated. Testes response to heat exposure was also assessed by determining the levels of LH and testosterone by (EIA).
Histopathological examination of brain and testes were evaluated after heat exposure. Brain content of dopamine, nor adrenaline and serotonin showed significant increase, there was an increased potassium and calcium levels while sodium and magnesium concentrations decreased. Also LH testosterone levels decreased after heat exposure. Histopathological examination revealed hyperemic capillaries and blood vessels allover the cerebral and disorganization of semineferous tubules of the testes. In conclusion, avoidance of hyperthermia is very important, the body temperature must be maintained in a safe normothermic range. It is recommended to assess the role of nutritional supplementation to alleviate the hazardous effects of heat stress.
[Faisal A. Bughdadai Hazardous Effects of Hyperthermia on Brain and Testicular Responses in Rats. Life Sci J. 2012; 9(2): 992-996].