Effects of Androctonus mauritanicus envenomation on an experimental mouse model of pregnancy and on mouse offspring

Scorpion envenomation is a public health issue in Morocco, where Androctonus mauritanicus is considered the most dangerous scorpion. This scorpion is well adapted to urban environments, and the likelihood of human exposure to its venom is increasingly high, including during pregnancy.

This study was designed to investigate whether a single subcutaneous injection of venom at a moderate envenomation dose in pregnant mice could lead to detrimental effects on maternal reproductive performance and offspring development.

Prior to examining developmental neurotoxicity, we assessed the acute toxicity of Androctonus mauritanicus venom in mice. Subsequently, the venom (200 μg/kg) was administered to pregnant mice on gestational day 5 (GD5), 10 (GD10), or 15 (GD15). Using neurobehavioral, developmental, hematological, and biochemical approaches, we investigated the consequences of Androctonus mauritanicus envenomation in pregnant mice. Additionally, we examined the role of oxidative stress in the venom's deleterious effects on reproductive performance and offspring development.

Our results show that Androctonus mauritanicus venom induces similar envenomation symptoms in pregnant and non-pregnant mice but causes vaginal bleeding and abortions when administered on gestational days 10 and 15. The venom also triggered biochemical, hematological, and enzymatic disruptions. Viability indices, lactation, and offspring growth were significantly reduced, along with noticeable morphological delays. Finally, sensorimotor functions of offspring exposed to venom in utero were severely impaired, affecting their social behavior, sensory maturation, and motor coordination.

Based on the findings of this study, Androctonus mauritanicus venom administration during pregnancy at a moderate dose can lead to significant effects on physical development and reflex maturation during the postnatal period.