Changes of nitric oxide synthase in hippocampus and cerebellum of the rat following exposure to electromagnetic pulse.

Ding G, Xie X, Zhang L,

Chin J Phys Med 20:81-83, 1998

Objective: In order to explore the role of nitric oxide in the obstruction of learning and memory of the rat caused by exposing to electromagnetic pulses (EMP), the distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression was studied in hippocampus and cerebellum of the rat following exposure to EMP.

Methods: SP immunohistochemical staining was employed to detect the distribution of NOS expression.

Results: The number of NOS positive neurons and the intensity of positive staining in hippocampus were decreased at 1.5 and 24 h after exposure to EMP. At 48 h, the number of NOS positive neurons reversed to control level but the intensity of positive staining was still low. the expression of NOS in cerebellum had no obvious changes.

Conclusion: Decrease of NOS expression in hippocampus relates to the obstruction of learning and memory of the rat after exposure to EMP.