The effect of copper loading on pregnant rats and their offspring.

Wistar albino rats were given copper acetate in the drinking water before and during pregnancy. Histological examination and a copper analysis of the liver and kidneys of the pregnant rats, showed copper deposition with a subsequent inflammatory reaction, in these organs. Examination of 11.5 day old embryos showed moderate retardation of growth and differentiation, especially of the neural tube. Examination of the ossification centers of 21.5 day old fetuses and newborn rats showed reduced numbers of ossification centers in the vertebrae, sternum and forelimb and hindlimb phalanges.