Differences in the histomorphology of the neural retina in Rattus norvegicus offspring due to varying maternal perigestational dietary folate levels

Abstract

Background: Nutrition, particularly folate, is crucial for embryonic development, affecting processes like retinogenesis. However, the impact of varying maternal folate levels on the neural retina's structure remains underexplored. Objective: This study aims to describe the histomorphological differences in the neural retina of Rattus norvegicus offspring due to varying maternal perigestational dietary folate levels. Study Design: The study used primary data from a previous randomized experimental study on 20 rats (40 retinas) divided into four groups: folate-deficient (0 mg/kg), control (2 mg/kg), folate-supplemented (8 mg/kg), and folate-suprasupplemented (40 mg/kg). The morphology of the neural retina was studied across the groups. Results: The folate-deficient diet group exhibited significant retinal disruptions, including focal widening of intercellular spaces in the inner nuclear layer, vacuolisation in the ganglion cell layer, and detachment of the internal limiting membrane. In contrast, the folate-supplemented diet group showed preserved retinal structure with an intact internal limiting membrane. However, the folate supra-supplemented diet group displayed retinal abnormalities similar to the deficient group, with focal widening of intercellular spaces, internal limiting membrane detachment, and retinal folding. Conclusion: Folate deficiency and suprasupplementation both disrupt retinal morphology, while normal supplementation preserves retinal structure, highlighting the importance of balanced folate intake for maintaining retinal health.