Novel Pharmacological Approaches for Treatment of Neurotoxicity Induced by Chronic Exposure to Depleted Uranium
Abstract
The chemical properties and high density of depleted uranium (DU) render the metal well suited for military purposes, but knowledge of DU neurotoxicity and its treatment is lacking. This project is designed to test the hypothesis that long-term administration of an anti-oxidant agent and/or an NMDA receptor antagonist will reduce neurotoxicity resulting from chronic exposure to DU. This hypothesis is based on previous observations in rats chronically exposed to DU, and reflects the anticipation that specific pharmacological agents will reverse signs of DU-induced oxidative stress. As prescribed by the Statement of Work, efforts continued in year 2 on Tasks 1 (drug therapies to reverse DU-induced neurotoxicity) and 2 (brain DU concentrations) utilizing experimental groups (0, 300, and 600 mg DU) exposed for 9 months. Task 1 is nearing completion, but at this point the NMDA receptor antagonist has not demonstrated neuroprotective effectiveness. Progress has been achieved on Tasks 2-4, and remaining subject cohorts will be analyzed in year 3. Thus, progress is proceeding according to the schedule specified in the Statement of Work.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA515805
Entities
People
- Stephen M. Lasley
Organizations
- University of Chicago