Effect of soman on N-methyl-D-aspartate-stimulated [3H]norepinephrine release from rat cortical slices

Organic Phosphorus Compounds—Nerve Agents

The organic phosphorous compounds (OPC) include both the military grade nerve agents and the organic phosphorous pesticides. The major mechanism of OPC toxicity is through inhibition of acetylcholinesterase in neuronal synapses leading to excess acetylcholine and overstimulation of target organs. Signs and symptoms depend on the affinity of the OPC for muscarinic versus nicotinic receptors, and are likely to include both. Muscarinic symptoms may include diarrhea, urination, bronchospasm, bronchorrhea, emesis, and salivation. Nicotinic symptoms such as paralysis and fasciculations may also occur. Central nervous system toxicity may include seizures, altered mental status, and apnea, and require prompt intervention. Treatment includes early airway and ventilatory support as well as antidotal therapy with atropine, pralidoxime, and diazepam. Goals of therapy include prevention and rapid treatment of hypoxia and seizures, as these are linked to patient outcome.

Soman-induced interleukin-1 beta mRNA and protein in rat brain

Exposure to high doses of the toxic organophosphate compound soman, also known as a chemical warfare agent, causes a progression of toxic symptoms including hyper-secretions, convulsions, respiratory depression, and finally death. In previous studies, we have demonstrated pronounced effects following soman intoxication in dopaminergic, GABAergic, and cholinergic systems in rat brain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects on the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), indicated as mRNA and protein production, at different time intervals following soman intoxication. The peak levels of mRNA was observed 30 min following soman exposure, while a significant increase in the protein was observed at 6 h. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed the presence of IL-1beta protein in astrocytes and endothelial cells. In addition to the previously observed effects of soman, there is an induction of IL-1beta in the brain. This effect, which is highly correlated to convulsions, implicates IL-1beta as a possible mediator for long-term brain damage observed after soman intoxication.