The present work aimed to investigate
the induction of circadian
rhythm dysfunction and dementia upon chronic exposure to light–light
and its reversal by melatonin in Wistar rats. Animals underwent different
light–dark conditions, viz., light/dark (LD), light/light (LL),
and dark/dark (DD) in respective groups for 4 months. Melatonin 0.5
mg/kg s.c., dextromethorphan 50 μg/100 g s.c., and mifepristone
25 μg/100 g s.c. were given once a day. Chronic LL and DD conditions
significantly increased brain glutamate and cortisol levels. The LL
period caused a deficit in spatial memory, working memory, decision
making, and exploration of novel objects, compared to LD animals.
A significant (p < 0.05) change in neuropathological
observations in the hippocampus, CA1, CA2, and CA3; cortex; and cerebellum
regions (40×, 100×, and 400×) was observed in the histological
study. Induced oxidative stress in brain tissue was also observed
by estimating tissue glutathione and TBARS levels. Dextromethorphan
(NMDA antagonist), mifepristone (corticosterone antagonist), and melatonin
significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the pathological
states caused due to LL. The histological features in the hippocampus,
cortex, and cerebellum region revealed inflammatory cells, vacuolation,
and pyknotic cells, which were significantly rescued by antagonizing
NMDA or cortisol or melatonin treatment. It may be concluded that
continuous exposure to light–light conditions produced an imbalance
between neuronal excitation and stress hormone, leading to poor cognitive
abilities and neuropathology.