Neurotoxic Effects of Petrochemical and Fertilizer Effluents on Hippocampal CA3 Region of Wistar Rats: A Histopathological Study

Background: Industrial effluents from petrochemical and fertilizer industries contain toxic substances capable of inducing neurotoxicity. However, limited studies have examined their specific effects on hippocampal cytoarchitecture, particularly the CA3 region, which is critical for memory and cognitive function. Methods: This experimental study utilized forty male albino Wistar rats randomly assigned into five groups (n=8). The control group received standard feed and water, while experimental groups were administered 1.5 mL of treated and untreated effluents from Eleme Petrochemical and Notore Chemical Company orally for 28 days. At days 7, 14, 21, and 28, brain tissues were harvested, processed using standard histological techniques, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for microscopic evaluation of the hippocampus. Results: Histological findings revealed normal hippocampal architecture in the control group. In contrast, effluent-exposed groups exhibited progressive neurodegenerative changes, including neuronal degeneration, vacuolation, hypertrophy, neuroglial infiltration, and necrosis. These alterations were more pronounced in groups exposed to untreated effluents, with severity increasing over time. Conclusion: Exposure to industrial effluents induces significant, time-dependent neurodegenerative changes in the hippocampus, with untreated effluents posing greater toxicity. These findings highlight the need for improved effluent treatment and stricter environmental regulation to mitigate potential neurological risks.