The Effects of 3,4-methylenedioxy- methamphetamine on Neurogenesis in the Hippocampus of Male Rats

The administration of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or ecstasy causes memory impairment, whereas neurogenesis improves memory and learning. Hence, this study evaluated the effects of MDMA on neurogenesis in the hippocampus of male rats.

Adult male Wistar rats received Intraperitoneal (IP) injections of MDMA (10 mg/kg). We assessed nestin, sex-determining region Y-box 2 (Sox2), and NeuroD expressions according to the immunohistochemistry analyses. 

MDMA reduced the expressions of nestin, Sox2, and NeuroD compared with the control groups. The reduction in NeuroD expression was age-related. 

MDMA possibly has negative effects on neurogenesis, which specifically results from impaired survival of newborn cells.