In a recent study, researchers found that exposure to traffic-related air pollution led to memory loss, cognitive decline, and triggered neurological pathways associated with the onset of Alzheimer’s disease in mice.
The findings highlight the potential impact of increasing global air pollution on human health.
Masashi Kitazawa, an associate professor at the University of California, Irvine, and his team, used two groups of mouse models at different ages: 3 months old, representing developing youth, and 9 months old, representing the elderly.
The mice were exposed to ultrafine particulate matter from ambient air in Irvine for 12 weeks, while a control group was exposed to purified air.
After testing for memory tasks and cognitive function, researchers discovered that exposure to particulate matter impaired both measures.
More worryingly, the older group showed signs of brain plaque build-up and glial cell activation, both associated with increased inflammation and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
Michael Kleinman, coauthor of the study, called air pollution one of the few prominent, modifiable environmental risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
He emphasized the need for public and environmental regulatory agencies to expedite efforts to reduce particulate matter levels to decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s and other serious health conditions.
According to Kitazawa, these findings are alarming, necessitating the adoption of effective regulations, spreading awareness about lifestyle changes, and improving air quality collectively.
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The study was published in Toxicological Sciences.
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