Cardiac and Hepatic miRNAs Altered Expression in Rat Embryo after Bisphenol-A (BPA) Exposure and Their Histopathological Impact (In vivo Study)

Introduction: Plastic compound are widely used in modern life. Bisphenol-A is an essential component in high quality plastic containers such as bottles and food boxes. Beside its hormonal agonist and antagonist effects, Food and drug administration (FDA) had reported it is transmitted from mother to fetus through placental circulation causing mi-RNAs mutation. mi-RNAs regulate cellular morphology and functions through its essential role in genetic expression. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of exposure of BPA on maternal [placenta, body weight & blood pressure] and fetal [liver, heart & miRNAs expression] and the impact of miRNAs expression disorders on multiorgan development, namely cardiac and hepatic development.

Materials and Methods: 60 healthy pregnant females’ rats were picked up since day one of gestation and divided into three groups (n=20). (c) control group gained access to drinking water containing only the vehicle (tween-80) 0.1/ml for three weeks.(10-BPA) group, gained access to drinking water containing 10 mg/L of BPA for three weeks.(20-BPA) group, gained access to drinking water containing 20 mg/L of BPA for three weeks. Placenta, liver and heart samples were collected and histopathological changes were recorded and mi-RNAs expression was investigated.

Results: Histopathological changes were noticed in BPA related groups if compared to control group. mi-RNAs expression was found in same groups with variable extent. A significant increase was noticed in body weight and blood pressure of pregnant rats.

Conclusion: Our data examined the impact of BPA exposure on different organs and their related miRNAs expression which showed a non-neglectable effect especially on the placenta of the mother and fetal heart and liver.