EFFECT OF MATERNAL EXPOSURE TO ULTRAVIOLET -A DURING LATE GESTATION ON NEONATAL HEPATIC IMMUNE FUNCTION IN WISTAR RAT

ABSTRACT Ultraviolet-A (UVA) radiation, a major component of solar ultraviolet radiation, penetrates deep into tissues and has been reported to modulate immune responses through oxidative stress, nitric oxide production, and vitamin D-independent pathways. However, the implications of maternal UVA exposure during gestation—particularly in the late phase—on the developing immune system of offspring remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effect of maternal exposure to UVA radiation during late gestation on the hepatic immune function of neonatal Wistar rats. Pregnant Wistar rats were divided into control and UVA-exposed group. The experimental group was exposed to controlled doses of UVA radiation from gestation day 15 to 21. At birth, neonatal liver tissues were collected and analyzed for immunological markers, immune cell infiltration, and histopathological changes. Hematological parameters and oxidative stress markers were also assessed. No significant difference was observed in birth weight or postnatal weight between groups. However, liver weight was significantly reduced in the UVA-exposed group. Antioxidant enzyme activity showed a marked decrease in SOD and catalase levels, indicating oxidative stress, while glutathione peroxidase activity remained unchanged. Globulin levels were significantly elevated in the experimental group, suggesting altered immune protein synthesis. Total protein, albumin, CRP, and interleukin levels showed no statistically significant changes. Histological analysis of neonatal liver tissues revealed centrilobular congestion in the UVA-exposed group, further supporting the detrimental impact of maternal UVA exposure on hepatic structure and function. Maternal exposure to UVA radiation during late gestation adversely affected neonatal hepatic antioxidant defenses and modulated immune protein expression without significantly altering systemic inflammatory markers. These findings highlight the potential risks of non-ionizing radiation exposure during pregnancy and the need for further research into its long-term effects on fetal organ development. Key Words: Ultraviolet-A, late-gestation, Liver, Neonate