Possible Association of Disturbances in the Estrous Cycle with Anxiety-related Behavior in Aluminum-exposed Female Rats

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OBJECTIVES: Unavoidable exposure to aluminum (Al) poses a toxic threat to humans and animals. Physiologically unwanted Al is well known for its neurotoxicity. The metalloestrogenic nature of Al could also be linked to reprotoxicity. The current study evaluates the potential link between reprotoxicity and neurotoxicity associated with chronic exposure to Al. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult female Wistar rats were exposed to daily oral Al doses (50-150 mg/kg bw) for 6 weeks. Estrous cycles were monitored regularly, whereas anxiety-like behaviors were monitored fortnightly through open-field activity and evaluated at the end by elevated plus maze performances. RESULTS: The study reveals a clear dose- and duration-dependent pattern of impact on the tested parameters. Chronic exposure to Al induces a multifaceted toxicity syndrome characterized by significant hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (ovarian) axis disruption, leading to prolonged estrous cycles, heightened anxiety-like behavior, and severe induction of stereotypic and hyperactive locomotor patterns. CONCLUSIONS: The observed dose-dependent effects highlight the clinical and environmental relevance of Al exposure as a potent neurotoxicant and endocrine disruptor.

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