Histological changes in the motoneurons induced at L6 & L7 segments of spinal cord in different age group in rabbits

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to observe the tissue changes that occur in motoneurons in the L6 and L7 segments of the ventral horn of the spinal cord in different age groups in rabbits. Fifteen Rabbits were divided into three groups of equal number according to their age (weaning, maturation, Adult). L6 and L7 were removed (after sacrifice the rabbits) from the spinal cord and slice histologically to be examined under light microscope. Comparison was made in diameters of neurons and their numbers in different age groups and the results showed a significant decrease in the number of motor neurons and a significant increase in diameters with advancing age.