[Immunocytochemical studies on the serotonin neurons in nucleus raphe magnus in rat with chronic fluorosis].

Abstract

Objective  To study the serotonin neuron in rat with chronic fluorosis.

Methods  Animal model of chronic fluorosis in male rats was established with administration of large doses fluoride in drinking water. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of serotonin (5-HT) neurons in nucleus raphe magnus with immunocytochemical technique was done.

Results  The results showed that the number of 5-HT positive neurons in nucleus raphe magnus decreased in fluorosis group with the declared 5-HT positive particles in cytoplasm. With cell image analysis, the 5-HT contents in the 5-HT neurons decreased significantly in fluorosis group.

Conclusion  These results suggest that the administration of larger doses of fluoride will directly damage the central nervous system.