Effect of methylmercury chloride on c-fos gene expression in brain neurons of mice

Objective: To research the effect of methylmercury chloride (MMC) on c fos gene expression of cerebral neurons in mice. Methods:In the tested group 10 mg·kg -1 MMC was injected into mouse peritoneal cavity while the same volume of normal saline was given in the control group. Brain tissues of mice in P8 group were collected at 30,45,60,120 and 180 min,respectivley, after MMC injected,while the brain tissues of other groups were collected at 45 min.Effect of MMC on c fos gene expression was examined in situ hybridization. Results: The percentage of c fos positive neuron in P8 mice brain began to increased at 30 min and reached up to the peak at 45 min time point in cerebral and cerebellar. In the tested group positive rate of c fos expression in cerebrum of P1,P4 and P8 mice was significantly higher than that in the control group ( P 0.01),and the same as that in cerebellum of P1,P4,P8,P16 and P28 in mice. Conclusion: MMC could induce c fos gene expression of cerebral neurons in mice,which could be one mechanism of injury to nerve system.