The role of TNF-α in methylmercury-induced neurotoxicity

Abstract

Our previous study suggested that TNF-α may be involved in the selective damage of sensory neurons by methylmercury (MeHg). To examine this possibility, toxicity of MeHg was compared between wild type (WT) mice and TNF-α deficient (KO) mice. Survival, weight loss, mercury accumulation, and hind limb extension symptoms were evaluated after oral administration of MeHg. The results indicate that TNF-α is involved at least in the hind limb extension symptoms caused by MeHg.