Effect of perinatal dietary protein deficiency on some neurochemicals and cytoarchitectural balance, in F1 and F2 generations of rats

Abstract

ABSTRACT Protein deficiency, characterized by an inadequate intake of protein in the diet that fails to meet the body’s physiological requirements across various stages, can lead to detrimental outcomes. This is of interest due to the persistent low protein content in staple foods and suboptimal dietary patterns. The study sought to assess the intergenerational repercussions of dietary protein deficiency on specific neurochemicals and the cytoarchitecture of the brain within the F1 and F2 generations of rats. The rats were categorized into four groups based on the protein content percentage in their diets: 21% protein diet (21%PD), 10% protein diet (10%PD), 5% protein diet (5%PD), and control diet. Neurobehavior was assessed, while brain serotonin and dopamine levels were measured using HPLC. BDNF and GDNF expression in the hippocampal and prefrontal (PFC) sections, Immunohistochemical investigations of the morphological impact on the hippocampus and PFC, were also analyzed. The protein-deficient groups displayed anxiety, loss of striatal serotonin and increased dopamine levels, degenerated pyramidal cells in the hippocampus, and a prominent reduction in cellular density in the PFC. BDNF and GDNF levels in the PFC were reduced in the 5%PD group. GFAP astrocyte expression was observed to be increased in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampal sections, indicating heightened reactivity. The density of hypertrophied cells across generations further suggests the presence of neuroinflammation. Changes in brain structure, neurotransmitter levels, and neurotrophic factor levels may indicate intergenerational alterations in critical regions, potentially serving as indicators of the brain’s adaptive response to address protein deficiency across successive generations.