Neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by PM2.5 Exposure and its possible role in Neurodegenerative and mental disorders

Abstract

Recent extensive evidence suggests that ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5, with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm) may be neurotoxic to the brain and cause central nervous system damage, contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. PM2.5 can enter the brain via various pathways, including the blood–brain barrier, olfactory system, and gut-brain axis, leading to adverse effects on the CNS. Studies in humans and animals have revealed that PM2.5-mediated mechanisms, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and gut flora dysbiosis, play a crucial role in CNS damage. Additionally, PM2.5 exposure can induce epigenetic alterations, such as hypomethylation of DNA, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of some CNS damage. Through literature analysis, we suggest that promising therapeutic targets for alleviating PM2.5-induced neurological damage include inhibiting microglia overactivation, regulating gut microbiota with antibiotics, and targeting signaling pathways, such as PKA/CREB/BDNF and WNT/β-catenin. Additionally, several studies have observed an association between PM2.5 exposure and epigenetic changes in neuropsychiatric disorders. This review summarizes and discusses the association between PM2.5 exposure and CNS damage, including the possible mechanisms by which PM2.5 causes neurotoxicity.

Retinoic Acid Treatment Mitigates PM2.5-Induced Type 2 Inflammation: Insights into Modulation of Innate Immune Responses

“…For example, PM10 exposure significantly increased the IL-33/ST2 pathway-mediated type 2 immune response in patients with CRSwNP [17]. Moreover, fine dust particles can be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause several health problems [18,19]. According to the World Health Organization European Air Quality Guidelines published in 1987, fine dust is classified as a carcinogen [20].…”

Altered Morpho-Functional Features of Neurogenesis in Zebrafish Embryos Exposed to Non-Combustion-Derived Magnetite

“…Exposure to metal-bearing particulate matter (PM), indeed, has been widely associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders and cognitive dysfunctions [ 10 , 11 ]. Both fine (PM2.5) and coarse (PM10) particles can enter the body through the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, so they can gain access to multiple organs, including the brain, depending on their physical and chemical properties (e.g., morphometry or surface charge) [ 12 ]. While the European Union’s zero-pollution action plan is successfully reducing the number of premature deaths caused by PM2.5 [ 13 ], association studies across different countries/regions have highlighted an increased risk in daily all-cause mortality due to coarse PM inhalation [ 14 ].…”