Effects of taurine on the learning and memory capacities in Manganese poisoned rats

Objective To study the protective and therapeutic effects of taurine on the learning and memory capacities in Manganese (Mn) poisoned rats. Methods One hundred healthy male SD rats in comparable weights were randomized into 5 groups: the 24-week control group (Group A), 24-week taurine treatment group (Group B), 12-week Mn-stained group (Group C), 12-week control group (Group D) and 12-week taurine prevention group (Group E) to receive interventions accordingly. After the interventions, each rat was assessed in a one-week study with navigation test for learning and memory capacities. Results The mean escape latency showed an overall downward trend. After a 2- day adaptation training, the mean escape latency appeared varied across all groups on days 3 and 4, significantly longer in Group C (29, 25)s than in Groups D (17, 14)s and E (16, 13)s, and in Group A (41, 35)s than in Group C. From day 5 onwards, each group showed slower change in mean escape latency. On a daily basis of observation, Groups D and E seemed comparable to each other, while Groups A and B showed basically longer mean escape latency compared with the other 3 groups. Conclusion Manganese staining can be hazardous to learning and memory capacities of rats. In contrast, taurine intervention may be beneficial, suggesting an antagonistic role of taurine against neuro- toxicity by Manganese. In addition, age may be an influencing factor for test outcome in the rats.