Background & Objective: Aroclor 1254 is a widespread toxic compound of Polychlorinated
Biphenyls (PCBs), which can create significant nervous problems. No remedies have been found to
date. The aim of this study was to reveal the damage that occurs in the central nervous system of rat
pups exposed to Aroclor 1254 in the prenatal period and to show the inhibiting effect of curcumin,
which is a strong anti-oxidant and neuroprotective substance.
Method:
The study established 3 groups of adult female and male Wistar albino rats. The rats were
mated within these groups and the offspring rats were evaluated within the group given Aroclor 1254
only (n=10) and the group was given both Aroclor 1254 and curcumin (n=10) and the control group
(n=10). The groups were compared in respect of pathomorphological damage. The immunohistochemical
evaluation was made of 8-hydroxdeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxynoneal (4HNE),
myelin basic protein (MBP) expressions and TUNEL reaction. The biochemical evaluation was made
of the changes in the TAS-TOS and Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) levels. Damage was seen to have
been reduced with curcumin in the 8OHdG and TUNEL reactions, especially in the forebrain and the
midbrain, although the dosage applied did not significantly change TAS and TOS levels. Consequently,
it was understood that Aroclor 1254 caused damage in the central nervous system of the pup
in the prenatal period, and curcumin reduced these negative effects, particularly in the forebrain and
the midbrain.
Conclusion:
It was concluded that curcumin could be a potential neuroprotective agent and would be
more effective at higher doses.