Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have shed new light on the potential harm certain household chemicals can do to our brains.
Their findings, published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, reveal that chemicals in everyday items—ranging from furniture to personal hair products—could be linked to severe neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
While genetic factors have long been known to play a role in neurological disorders, the vast majority of cases can’t be explained by genetics alone.
This gap in understanding has led scientists to explore environmental factors, and the team at Case Western has made a critical discovery.
They’ve identified that common chemicals can directly damage a crucial type of brain cell known as oligodendrocytes.
These cells are responsible for creating a protective layer around nerve cells, and their loss is a key factor in multiple sclerosis and similar neurological conditions.
Paul Tesar, a leading figure in the study, emphasized the importance of this discovery, noting that it uncovers a previously unknown risk factor for neurological diseases.
The study took an extensive look at over 1,800 chemicals that people might encounter in their homes, identifying two specific types that pose a risk: organophosphate flame retardants and quaternary ammonium compounds.
Quaternary ammonium compounds are commonly found in disinfectants and personal care products, which have seen increased use since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the other hand, organophosphate flame retardants are often included in electronics and furniture to reduce the risk of fire.
Through detailed laboratory tests, including cellular and organoid models, the researchers observed how quaternary ammonium compounds led to the death of oligodendrocytes.
Similarly, organophosphate flame retardants were found to inhibit the maturation of these essential cells.
The study didn’t stop at the laboratory. By examining the developing brains of mice, the team could demonstrate the direct impact of these chemicals on oligodendrocytes.
Moreover, they connected exposure to one of these chemicals with adverse neurological outcomes in children across the nation.
Erin Cohn, the study’s lead author and a graduate student in the Medical Scientist Training Program at the School of Medicine, highlighted the unique vulnerability of oligodendrocytes to these chemicals.
This vulnerability might help explain how certain neurological diseases develop, bridging a significant gap in our understanding of these conditions.
Despite these groundbreaking findings, the researchers caution that the link between chemical exposure and its effects on brain health needs further exploration.
Future studies will need to measure chemical levels in the brains of both adults and children to determine how much and how long exposure contributes to or exacerbates neurological diseases.
The team at Case Western is calling for a more thorough examination of how these everyday chemicals affect our brains. They hope their work will lead to better regulatory measures or lifestyle changes to reduce exposure and protect health.
This research not only highlights a significant health concern but also emphasizes the need for greater awareness and action regarding the chemicals we regularly come into contact with.
If you care about brain health, please read studies about how the Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and Omega-3 fats and carotenoid supplements could improve memory.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies about antioxidants that could help reduce dementia risk, and higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
The research findings can be found in Nature Neuroscience.
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