The Impact of Maternal Passive Tobacco Smoke on Neonatal Myocardiopathy in Mice.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoke has a global impact, particularly on pregnant women and their newborns. An emerging body of research suggests that passive tobacco smoking is a significant contributor to congenital cardiovascular disorders (CVDs). AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to mimic the effects of passive tobacco smoke (PTS) on neonates exposed throughout the gestational period. METHODS: Female mice (DPC = 0) were exposed to PTS; 24 cigarettes/day with an interval of 10 min between each cigarette in a specialized smoke chamber from conception to birth. Histopathological analysis was employed to evaluate PTS-induced cardiac damage in neonates. RESULTS: The results revealed significant alterations in cell structure, namely, widened interstitial spaces, hemorrhage, pyknotic nuclei, inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition, and fibrosis. CONCLUSION: Maternal exposure to PTS during pregnancy may lead to neonatal myocardiopathy.