Effect of bifenthrin on memory processes, movement activity, and coordination in mice exposed to transient cerebral oligaemia

The purpose of the present study was to examine whether the effects of exposure to 0.1LD₅₀ of bifenthrin on memory processes, movement activity, and coordination could be exacerbated by transient reduction of cerebral oxygen supply. The transient occlusion of both common carotid arteries (BCCA) in adult mice was performed under anaesthesia. Intraperitoneal LD₅₀ for bifethrin was estimated to be 16.1mg/kg b.w. The memory retention was evaluated in a step-through passive avoidance task (PA), working spatial memory in a Y-maze, movement coordination on a rota-rod, and movement activity in an automated device. Long-term memory impairment caused by bifenthrin was exacerbated by BCCA. Movement co-ordination was significantly altered in animals treated with the compound. Movement activity was slightly decreased in animals after BCCA and pesticide injection. These results indicate that cerebral oligaemic hypoxia potentiates long-term memory impairing effect of bifenthrin.