PFAS: exploration of neurotoxicity and environmental impact.
Mrunal NannawareNeelaambhigai MayilswamyBalasubramanian KPublished in: Environmental science and pollution research international (2024)
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread contaminants stemming from various industrial and consumer products, posing a grave threat to both human health and ecosystems. PFAS contamination arises from multiple sources, including industrial effluents, packaging, and product manufacturing, accumulating in plants and impacting the food chain. Elevated PFAS levels in water bodies pose significant risks to human consumption. This review focuses on PFAS-induced neurological effects, highlighting disrupted dopamine signalling and structural neuron changes in humans. Animal studies reveal apoptosis and hippocampus dysfunction, resulting in memory loss and spatial learning issues. The review introduces the BKMR model, a machine learning technique, to decipher intricate PFAS-neurotoxicity relationships. Epidemiological data underscores the vulnerability of young brains to PFAS exposure, necessitating further research. Stricter regulations, industry monitoring, and responsible waste management are crucial steps to reduce PFAS exposure.
Keyphrases
- human health
- risk assessment
- climate change
- heavy metals
- machine learning
- drinking water
- wastewater treatment
- endothelial cells
- oxidative stress
- gene expression
- dna methylation
- electronic health record
- uric acid
- big data
- working memory
- blood brain barrier
- drug induced
- diabetic rats
- induced pluripotent stem cells
- health information
- brain injury