Histomorphological findings in the brain of adult Wistar rats exposed to the ecstasy Pill; 3, 4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine
Idehen I C, O Yibala, Yakubu B S, Bankole J K, E Asibor, Dic-Ijiewere E O, Chelimo J J, Iyevhobu K O
KIU Journal of Health Sciences December 22, 2024 DOI: 10.59568/kjhs-2024-4-2-11 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Controlled animal experiment Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 25 |
| Population | Adult Wistar rats with a mean weight of 110.10 g |
| Interventions | 3 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) |
| Topics | MDMA |
| Key findings | Moderate doses of MDMA did not cause brain histomorphological changes associated with oxidative stress in adult Wistar rats; brain sections from treated groups showed normal neurons, glial cells, and fibrillary extensions. The authors call for further research on whether moderate MDMA doses might cause permanent changes that manifest later in maturity or old age. |
Abstract
In all vertebrates and the majority of invertebrates, the brain is the organ that acts as the hub of the nervous system. 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a derivative of amphetamine that affects the central nervous system (CNS), is marketed under the brand name Molly and is abused for its intoxicating recreational effects. Using adult Wistar rats, this study sought to ascertain the histomorphological effects of molly on the brain. The animal farm provided 25 adult Wistar rats with a mean weight of 110.10g, and segmented into five groups (A–E). Groups B through E were the test groups, and group A was the control. Molly was made in graded doses for Groups B through E, and the amount to be given was determined by weighing the dosages. Sections were taken from the samples and subjected to histological processing after brain tissues were removed and preserved in 10% formal saline for a full day. A segment of the brain including normal neurons with normochromic nuclei, pale cytoplasm, and normal glial cells was displayed in groups A (control), B, and E. There were typical fibrillary extensions in the backdrop. In conclusion, modest dosages of MDMA did not cause alterations in the brain associated with oxidative stress. Adult rats treated with MDMA did not exhibit changes in brain morphology or histology. To determine whether moderate MDMA dosages cause brain alterations in adult animals and whether these changes are permanent and might manifest later in maturity or old age, more research is needed.
Comparable studies
Other preclinical and animal studies on MDMA, most cited first.