Experimental hypothyroidism during pregnancy affects nociception and locomotor performance of offspring in rats

Background Thyroid hormones (THs) play a crucial role in the development of several organic systems. An adequate support of maternal THs may be required to ensure a normal nociceptive function of offspring into adulthood. We investigated the impact of experimental gestational hypothyroidism (EGH) on nociceptive threshold and motor performance in the offspring at different post‐natal days (PND) in both male and female rats. Methods EGH was induced by the administration of 0.02% methimazole (MMI) in the drinking water from the ninth day of gestation until birth. The offspring from MMI‐treated dams (OMTDs) or from water‐treated dams (OWTDs) were assessed for thermal and mechanical nociception using the tail‐flick test and von Frey filaments, respectively. Both rota‐rod and grip strength were used to assess motor function. Results OMTD had reduced thermal (p