Comparative Analysis of Treated and Untreated Industrial Effluents on Cerebellar Architecture in Wistar Rats: Assessing Neurotoxic Impact and Structural Alterations

Abstract

Background: Industrial effluents contain hazardous contaminants that pose significant risks to environmental and public health, including neurotoxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the histopathological effects of treated and untreated industrial effluents from Notore Chemicals and Petrochemical Industry and Port Harcourt Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited on the cerebellar cortex of Wistar rats. Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups and administered 100% effluent via oral gavage for 28 days. Histological analyses were conducted on days 3 and 28 to assess structural changes in the cerebellar cortex. Results: Results on day 3 showed varying degrees of neuronal degeneration, vacuolation, pyknosis, and karyorrhexis, with untreated effluents causing more severe neurotoxic effects. By day 28, progressive neurodegeneration and vascular congestion were observed, indicating worsening toxicity over time. Conclusion: These findings highlight the potential neurotoxic risks of industrial effluents, emphasizing the need for stricter waste management regulations to mitigate long-term neurological impairments.