Effect of Calcium Carbide Induced Ripened Fruit on the Hippocampus of Adult Wistar Rats

Introduction: Calcium carbide (CaC2) produces acetylene gas that quickens the ripening process of fruits because it has similar properties to ethylene. CaC2 as a toxic substance has deleterious effects on several organs, especially on the nervous system.

Method: This study was carried out to investigate the neurotoxicity effect of CaC2on the hippocampus. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were grouped into 4 groups of 7 animals. Group1 (control) received distilled water while Group2, Group3 and Group4 were administered with 100mg/kg CaC2 in water for 7, 14 and 21 days respectively. The rats in each group were subjected to the Barnes Maze test and observations were recorded. On completion of the tests which lasted for 2 days, the rats were sacrificed, and their brains were extracted and processed for neuropathological examination. The results of the Barnes Maize test showed a significant difference with control on the 7th, 14th and 21st days CaC2 administered rats (P<0.05).

Results: Neuropathological examination revealed extensive neuronal degeneration and vacuolation of the pyramidal layer, molecular layer and granular layer of the hippocampus in the calcium carbide group which worsen at the third week. The Natural banana group showed rapid duration dependent proliferation of the Neuronal cells with a well-preserved Neuronal architecture. This may suggest that Natural ripened Banana is composed of some mitotic compositions. The calcium carbide and vitamin C group had a better neuronal architecture which was evident at third week. This also showed that Vitamin C has an ameliorative effect in calcium carbide poison.

Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the neurodegenerative effects of CaC2 on the hippocampus and concurrent Neurobehavioral changes in hippocampal-related learning and memory ability.