The Investigation into Neurotoxicity Mechanisms of Nonylphenol: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Nonylphenol (NP), as a chemical compound that widely used in industry, is the result of the nonylphenol ethoxylate decomposition and it is known as an estrogen-like compound. Numerous studies and researches have shown that it has many destructive functions of various organs such as the brain. This toxicant causes oxidative stress in the cortex and hippocampus cells, which are two essential regions to preserve memory and learning in the brain. Methods: This review examines recent findings to better understand the mechanisms of NP neurotoxicity. We used Scopus, Google Scholar and PubMed databases to find articles with focus on the destructive effects of NP on the oxidative stress pathway and its defense mechanisms. Results: NP has potential human health hazard associated with gestational, peri- and postnatal exposure. NP can disrupt brain homeostasis in different ways, such as activation of inflammatory factors in brain especially in hippocampus and cortex, disruption of the cell cycle, changes in neuron, dendrites and synapses morphology, disruption of extra and intracellular calcium ion balance and also memory and learning disorders

Thymoquinone Improved Nonylphenol-Induced Memory Deficit and Neurotoxicity Trough its Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects

“…The current study showed that the brain level of MDA signi cantly increased in the NP-treated group. Several studies have reported that oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms of NP toxicity and various neurological diseases [57,58]. We found that TQ signi cantly decreased the brain MDA level and increased antioxidant status.…”

Therapeutic effect of thymoquinone on brain damage caused by nonylphenol exposure in rats

“…Numerous studies; showed that exposure to certain chemicals, such as minerals, solvents, and certain compounds in the category of persistent organic pollutants, can impair certain areas of the brain that affect functions such as memory and learning. [ 10,28,29 ] These facts form the basis for further studies on neurotoxicity and changes in brain homeostasis. Studies have reported that EDCs have potential toxic effects on the reproductive, digestive, immune, hemopoietic system, and CNS.…”

“…TNF released from astrocytes exacerbates inflammation and can destroy the nerve by releasing ROS from microglia. [ 10 ] Aydoğan et al showed that NP generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause oxidative damage in the brain of male rats. [ 11 ] NP causes the accumulation of ROS in the brain and can cause lipid peroxidation.…”

“…ROS accumulation and consequent cellular redox may be one of the triggers for the apoptosis process. [ 10 ] Exposure to NP results in increased free radical formation that leads to oxidative stress in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. The hippocampus and frontal cortex manage sensory, motor, and learning activities.…”

Effect of Nonylphenol on the Structure of Adrenal Cortex in F1 Generation Rats

“…Meanwhile, the current EDC research subjects have been expanded to include neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and metabolic toxicity in addition to reproductive toxicity ( Gore et al, 2015 ). For example, it has been reported that NP exposure could induce adverse effects in brain ( Lotfi et al, 2021 ), spleen ( Fu et al, 2022 ), and pancreas ( Yu et al, 2018 ). In addition, it was found that NP has an endocrine disrupting effect in the adrenal gland, such as synthesis and secretion of steroid hormones, as in the gonads ( Chang et al, 2010 , 2012).…”