Biophysical and electrophysiological studies of hexanedione neurotoxicity.

This study examined the significance of nerve microviscosity changes which occur in 2,5-hexanedione (2,5-HD) neurotoxicity. To establish a correlation between microviscosity changes and neuronal damage, a standard axonal neuropathy (nerve section) was employed. Electrophysiological studies of the sciatic-tibial nerve of rats were carried out to detect the onset of nerve damage. Also, because 2,5-HD may affect membranes in general, with nerve membranes being the most sensitive, red blood cell ghost membranes were prepared from 2,5-HD treated animals and tested for viscosity changes. Results of these studies suggest that 2,5-HD and nerve section have similar effects on myelin microviscosity.