Document Type

Restricted

Advisor

Joseph Schroeder

Publication Date

2025

Comments

Access to this paper is restricted to the Connecticut College campus until December 5, 2025.

Abstract

Neurotoxins are substances that alter the structure and function of the central nervous system. Many of these substances exist within the environment, including lead, arsenic, mercury, and chromium. The most common neurotoxin existing within our environment is lead (Pb2+). When exposed to the body, the central nervous system can become heavily impacted, which is especially seen in individuals that are still in the process of development. Elevated levels of lead in the blood can lead to psychological effects and neurodegeneration. Psychiatric manifestations may include increased depression, anxiety and irritability. Chronic exposure can lead to decreased mental processing speed, fine and gross motor deficits, and overall decreased cognitive function. Evidence also suggests that individuals exposed to an impoverished environment may demonstrate increased adverse effects to Pb2+ exposure compared to those in an enriched environment. The present study highlights the effects of lead contamination on spatial learning and memory in rats and the effects of being exposed to an impoverished or enriched environment. Pups were exposed to 0.04% of lead acetate drinking water or tap water and randomly placed in an impoverished environment (single housed) or an enriched environment (group housing). Spatial learning and memory were measured through the use of the Barnes maze. It is hypothesized that pups exposed to lead acetate drinking water along with being housed in an impoverished environment will display significant cognitive deficits compared to those exposed to tap water. The results did not reveal a significant main effect between lead pups and control pups being exposed to an enriched environment or impoverished environment. Results showed a significant main effect regarding latency to escape for days 6-9, but none of the post hoc tests comparing the different groups revealed any significance.

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The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.