Desenvolvimento reflexo e somático da prole de ratas Wistar suplementadas com óleo de milho durante a gestação e lactação.

Abstract

During the formation of the Central Nervous System (CNS), behavioral and physiological changes occur through genetic, hormonal, environmental, nutritional, and pharmacological processes, which may compromise the development in this period. Breast milk is rich in lipid sources and provides a greater source of energy, besides supplying essential nutrients such as fat-soluble vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid (omega 6) and α-linolenic acid (omega 3). Because they are not synthesized endogenously, they are considered essential fatty acids (EFA), and are obtained through diet or supplementation. There is a wide variety of sources of EFA that can be used for maternal supplementation. Among these, corn oil stands out, containing in its lipidic composition a high content of fatty acids (FFA), such as linoleic acid (39-63%), oleic (20-42%) and palmitic acid (9-17%). Given the importance of fatty acids in the formation of the CNS of neonates, as well as the lack of studies on corn oil related to these parameters, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of corn oil on the offspring of Wistar rats supplemented during gestation and lactation. The rats were divided into two groups: Control Group (CG) which received soybean oil at a dose of 1mL/100g and the Corn Oil Group (OM) which received corn oil at a dose of 1mL/100g. The pregnant rats received feed and water ad libitum until the end of lactation, according to the respective group. Male pups from each group (n=9) were used for the tests. The physical development (body weight and tail length) of each animal was followed during the 21 days of lactation. During this same period, the onset of reflexes and somatic maturation were evaluated. The offspring of the rats treated with corn oil showed anticipation in the parameters of reflex maturation in Negative Geotaxis (NG) and Placing by the Vibrissae (CPV), and in somatic maturation, presented anticipation in the Opening of the Pinna (APA). This is one of the first signs of maturation under normal environmental conditions. The supplementation contributed to a good performance, however, it was not able to promote the acceleration of most of the parameters analyzed. Thus, corn oil can be an alternative source for the supply of essential fatty acids. However, further studies would be necessary in order to reveal its main consequences on the development of the central nervous system.