The role of neuronal apoptosis in Valproic Acid brain-related teratogenesis: a histochemical and immunohistochemical study in BALB/c mice.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the teratogenic effects of Valproic Acid (VPA) and to investigate the role of apoptosis in neural tissue development. Although an apoptotic activity due to VPA has been reported, a direct connection of VPA-induced apoptosis with embryonic brain and∕or spine malformations and teratogenesis has not yet been established.

Materials And Methods: VPA was administered to BALB∕c mice, from the 7th to the 10th gestational days.