Certain organophosphorus
esters, such as
diisopropylfluorophosphate (
DFP), cause delayed neuropathy by inhibition of
neuropathy target esterase (NTE) keeping the neuron in normal function. In this study, effects of
neurobion alone and in combination with
dexamethasone on
DFP-induced delayed neuropathy were evaluated. Thirty-five mice were divided into five groups, each consisting of 7 mice. Except group1 (Normal group), group 2 received
normal saline and 1h later, 1 mg/kg
DFP; groups 3, 4 and 5 received 150 mg/kg
neurobion, 2 mg/kg
dexamethasone and 150 mg/kg
neurobion plus 2 mg/kg
dexamethasone, respectively and 1h later 1mg/kg
DFP. Twenty one days after the last injection, the mice were killed by
decapitation under deep
anesthesia. NTE level was determined in the brain and though there was no significant difference between the groups,
neurobion and
neurobion plus
dexamethasone partly- not significantly (p > 0.05)- were able to prevent reduction of NTE in the brain caused by
DFP. Histopathological evaluation of sciatic nerves showed that
neurobion and
neurobion plus
dexamethasone significantly suppressed the harmful effect of
DFP. We also evaluated the activity of
acetylcholine esterase (AChE), concentration of
glutathione (GSH), and
malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the serum. Results showed
dexamethasone (p < 0.001) and
dexamethasone in combination with
neurobion (p < 0.01) diminished AChE activity significantly compared to the
DFP group.
Neurobion caused a significant increase in the GSH level (p < 0.05). No significant change was seen in MDA. It is suggested that
neurobion should be added and used in the
first aid equipment and techniques for exposure to
organophosphorus compounds, e.g. pesticides and chemical warfare.