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Fine particulate matter exposure during childhood relates to hemispheric-specific differences in brain structure
Dora Cserbik1, Jiu-Chiuan Chen2, Rob McConnell1
1Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90063, USA.
Environment International
|July 14, 2020
Summary
Exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM$_{2.5}$) is linked to differences in brain structure in children. Even low levels of PM$_{2.5}$ may impact childhood brain development.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Growing concern exists regarding the neurotoxic effects of fine particulate matter air pollution (PM$_{2.5}$).
- Research is needed to understand if current PM$_{2.5}$ levels affect brain development in U.S. children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between PM$_{2.5}$ exposure and brain morphometry in children.
- To examine regional and hemispheric differences in brain development related to PM$_{2.5}$ exposure.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 10,343 children aged 9-10 years.
- Used MRI to assess brain structure and NIH Toolbox for cognition.
- Estimated PM$_{2.5}$ exposure using an ensemble model linked to residential addresses.
Main Results:
- PM$_{2.5}$ exposure was associated with hemispheric differences in gray matter in various brain regions.
- Found associations between PM$_{2.5}$ and cortical surface area, cortical thickness, and subcortical volumes.
- No significant associations were found with neurocognition measures or sex moderation.
Conclusions:
- Current PM$_{2.5}$ exposure levels may influence structural brain development in children.
- Further research is needed to understand long-term effects on cognitive and emotional development.
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