TIME-DEPENDENT CADMIUM-NEUROTOXICITY IN RAT-BRAIN SYNAPTOSOMAL PLASMA-MEMBRANES

1. The modulation of lipid dynamics and lipid protein interactions were studied in rat brain synaptosomal plasma membranes (SPM) up to 24 hr after exposure to cadmium (Cd). 2. The activity of acetylcholinesterase and adenylate cyclase showed a considerable decrease after 6 hr of Cd exposure, followed by a progressive increase up to 24 hr. 3. SPM chemiluminescence showed a maximum decrease at 12 hr, demonstrating a considerable increase in lipid peroxidation. 4. SPM of Cd-exposed animals showed a statistical significant increase in fluorescence anisotropy parameter [(r0/r) - 1]-1 at 18 and 24 hr compared to SPM of the control, indicating a decrease of membrane fluidity.