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 complete, but the responses of DU-exposed animals to the drugs did not exhibit neuroprotective potential. Progress has been achieved on Tasks 2-4, and testing of remaining subject cohorts is being completed in the no cost extension period. Thus, progress is proceeding according to the Statement of Work and will be completed during the additional interval.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA538551
Entities
People
- Stephen M. Lasley
Organizations
- University of Illinois at Chicago