Abstract
ABSTRACT Inversion is the regular position for bats at rest, but continuous inversion was expected to reverse the gravity vector exposure from feet-ward to head-ward and present hemodynamic challenges that induce remodeling of the aorta. There is paucity of information regarding the cardiovascular structural adaptations in bats engaged in regulating cranial or caudal blood redistribution in prolonged inversion. The aim of this study was to determine aortic adaptations in bats during prolonged inversion. Forty (40) bats were captured at Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria and randomly allocated into a normal control group and three test groups (n=10/group). The inversion period was not extended in control group A, but was maintained 8 days in B, 15 days in C, and 22 days in D. At the end of each inversion period, the bats were euthanized using intramuscular injection, and tissues were processed for Haematoxylin and Eosin, Orcein, and Van Gieson staining. Histological changes in the tunica media and adventitia were quantified, and the results were analyzed statistically. The ascending aorta exhibited thickening of the media and adventitia, whereas the abdominal aorta showed thinning of these regions. The changes increased in magnitude with longer periods of inversion. The histological stains indicated alterations in smooth muscle cells, collagen, and elastin content, consistent with predicted elevated pressure in the ascending and decreased pressure in the abdominal aortae. The vascular adaptation in bats may provide insights into suspected cardiovascular changes in astronauts during long-term spaceflight.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.