Neurotoxicity of Acrylamide in Exposed Workers

Abstract

Acrylamide (ACR) is a water-soluble chemical used in different industrial and laboratory processes. ACR monomer is neurotoxic in humans and laboratory animals. Subchronic exposure to this chemical causes neuropathies, hands and feet numbness, gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, ataxia, skin and in some cases, cerebellar alterations. ACR neurotoxicity involves mostly the peripheral but also the central nervous system, because of damage to the nerve terminal through membrane fusion mechanisms and tubulovescicular alterations. Nevertheless, the exact action mechanism is not completely elucidated. In this paper we have reviewed the current literature on its neurotoxicity connected to work-related ACR exposure. We have analyzed not only the different pathogenetic hypotheses focusing on possible neuropathological targets, but also the critical behavior of ACR poisoning. In addition we have evaluated the ACR-exposed workers case studies. Despite all the amount of work which have being carried out on this topic more studies are necessary to fully understand the pathogenetic mechanisms, in order to propose suitable therapies.

Acrylamide in Surface and Drinking Water

“…Additionally, pain, paresthesias, loss of balance, and truncal ataxia may appear in some cases [46]. The initial symptoms are skin rash and hands, cramps, sweating, and peeling.…”

Protective Effect of Probiotic Enterococcus faecium NCIM 5593 on Acrylamide Induced Neurotoxicity in Adult Mice

“…Its wide spread application is associated with pollution and health risks [10]. It is also a common contaminant in foods prepared by cooking at high temperatures [11]. Even though, occupational ACR exposure in humans is recognized as the primary risk factor, there is a growing concern about the potential health effects of low sub-chronic ACR exposure through commonly consumed thermally processed foods [12].…”

Estimated Acrylamide Intake from Coffee Consumption in Latin America

“…According to the authors, the results provided insight into the inhibitory effects and the possible ligand-binding mechanism of acrylamide on CK . Pennisi et al (2013) showed that acrylamide-exposed workers presented high prevalence of paresthesia in hands and legs, cramping in legs, poor blood circulation in fingers, skin irritation and peeling of skin on the hands, headache and breathlessness. The acrylamide induced neurotoxicity diminished ATP-ase activity while enhancing activity of acetilcholinesterase and dopamine depletion.…”