Abstract

Background:
Mycotoxins are secondary compounds made by certain fungi that are not necessary to ensure the normal reproduction and survival of a fungus, but are able to induce physiological, pathological, and even biochemical alterations in a wide variety of organisms. Ochratoxin A (OTA) is one of the most well-known mycotoxins generated in nature by the Aspergillus and Penicillium species. It is widely found in contaminated food and feed such as wheat, corn, barley, olives, beans, figs, nuts, and grapes.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of prenatal OTA exposure in Swiss albino mice on male offspring during adulthood, focusing on mood disorders and brain oxidative stress.

Methods:
Pregnant female mice with confirmed vaginal plugs were randomly assigned to two groups: OTA (0.25 mg/kg, i.p.) or control (0.9% NaCl). The offspring were allowed to reach adulthood before undergoing behavioral assessments, including the forced swim test, elevated plus maze test, open field test, and tail suspension test. Brain oxidative stress markers were also measured.

Results:
Adult male offspring prenatally exposed to OTA exhibited significant mood alterations in adulthood. These behavioral changes were associated with elevated oxidative stress in brain tissue.

Conclusion:
Prenatal OTA exposure exerts potent neurotoxic effects on the developing brain, resulting in persistent mood disturbances and oxidative stress, highlighting the potential risks of OTA exposure during early development.

Key words: Brain development; Mice; Mood disorders; Ochratoxin A; Prenatal exposure.