Behavioural effects in rats after prenatal exposure to dearomatized white spirit

The purpose of the study was to investigate the potential developmental neu rotoxicity of the widely used organic solvent, white spirit. Rats (Mol:WIST ) were exposed to 0 or 800 ppm dearomatized white spirit for 6 hr per day o n gestation days 7-20. Developmental and neurobehavioural effects in the of fspring were investigated using a test battery including assessment of phys ical development, reflex ontogeny, motor function, motor activity and, lear ning and memory. No significant effects were recorded on motor function and the activity in Open Field. In the initial learning period (age 1 month), the performance in a Morris water maze was similar in exposed and control a nimals. When testing for memory at the age of 2 months, the exposed male of fspring used more time to locate the hidden platform. After platform reloca tion, impaired cognitive function was revealed in the exposed females. At t he age of 5 months, learning and memory deficits were observed in exposed o ffspring. The differences were not related to poorer swimming capabilities. because swim speeds were similar to control values. The results show that prenatal exposure to 800 ppm white spirit caused longlasting learning and m emory deficits in rats.