Effects of Al on the splenic immune function and NE in rats

Norepinephrine (NE) regulates the splenic immune function and it may be related to the effects of Aluminum (Al) on the splenic immune function. Here, the aim of this study was to further explore the effects of aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) on the splenic immune function and its relationship with NE. Forty male Wistar rats were orally exposed to AlCl3 (0, 64.18, 128.36 and 256.72 mg/kg BW) through drinking water for 120 days. The CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes, the T and B lymphocytes proliferation rates and serum NE concentration were examined. The correlation analysis between splenic immune function and NE were done. The results showed that the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes and the T and B lymphocytes proliferation rates decreased and NE concentration increased in AlCl3-treated rats. NE was negatively correlated with proportions of CD3+, CD4+ T lymphocytes and T and B lymphocytes proliferation rates, but not correlated with CD8+ T lymphocytes. The results suggest that AlCl3 suppresses the splenic immune function and NE plays important role in this process.