Association between Prenatal Particulate Matter Exposure and Neuropsychiatric Disorders Development

This comprehensive review explores the relationship between prenatal exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution and the development of various neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring. Air pollution, specifically by PM, is a global health concern, with PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ being the most detrimental to health. This review delves into the impact of prenatal PM exposure on neurodevelopment and the onset of disorders such as cognitive impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Utilizing data from international databases and focusing on full-text research papers from 2013 to 2023, we identified 18 relevant studies that explore the association between prenatal PM exposure and subsequent neuropsychiatric outcomes. The review discusses the potential mechanisms underlying these associations, including systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruptions in the gut-brain axis. Key findings include the detrimental effects of PM exposure on fetal brain development, leading to cognitive deficits, heightened risk of ASD, ADHD, and altered mental health outcomes. Moreover, the review highlights the need for further research to unravel the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and individual factors in the development of these disorders. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of reducing air pollution exposure, particularly during pregnancy, to safeguard fetal brain development and prevent neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring.