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Kidney development involves a complex series of molecular events, including cellular interactions, genetic signaling, and tissue differentiation, which collectively establish the foundation for these essential organs' functionality. However, this intricate developmental process can be sensitive to external influences. Given the kidneys' vital role in maintaining the body's balance and their susceptibility to developmental disruptions, it is crucial to investigate the potential consequences of prenatal Caffeine exposure. The impact of early-life exposure to toxins is increasingly recognized as having long-lasting effects that can contribute to various health issues throughout an individual's lifespan. Considering the widespread use of Caffeine among pregnant women, it becomes imperative to assess its effects on fetal kidney development. The aim of this study is to assess the histology of kidney development following intrauterine exposure to Caffeine in Wistar dams. In this study, thirty (30) adult Wistar rats weighing between 170 g and 180 g were used. The animals were paired overnight at the estrous cycle with sexually active males in the ratio of 2:1. Estrous cycle was confirmed by vaginal lavage. The presence of vaginal plug and/or sperm in the vaginal smear was GD0. The pregnant rats were divided into two groups (A and B) with fifteen (15) rats per group. Group A served as Control and was administered with a single intraperitoneal injection of 1ml of normal saline on GD 11, in addition to free access to feed and water. Group B served as the treated group and was administered a single intraperitoneal injection of 150mg/kg/day from GD11. On each gestational day (GD15, GD17, and GD19), five (5) animals were sampled from each group and sacrificed. The uterine horns were exteriorized and incised at the greater curvature of the horns. Fetal kidney tissues were harvested from each group for histological assessment. Histological studies showed that the group treated with Caffeine presented hypoplasia of the glomerulus on GD 17. Hypoplasia of the glomerulus and incomplete canalization of the renal tubules were what characterized the kidney on GD 19. In conclusion, caffeine has teratogenic potential against kidney development in Wistar rats
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