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Effects of TBBPA Exposure on Neurodevelopment and Behavior in Mice
Yongin Kim1, Inho Hwang1, Sun Kim1
1Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 14, 2025
Summary
Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a common flame retardant, is a developmental neurotoxicant. Perinatal exposure in mice caused sex-specific neurodevelopmental and behavioral deficits in offspring, highlighting toxicity concerns.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Neuroscience
- Developmental biology
Background:
- Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a widely used brominated flame retardant found globally.
- TBBPA exposure is a concern due to its presence in environmental matrices and human tissues.
- Evidence suggests TBBPA may act as an endocrine disruptor in the brain, impacting neurodevelopment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental neurotoxicity of TBBPA.
- To assess the effects of perinatal TBBPA exposure on neurodevelopment and behavior in offspring.
- To determine if TBBPA exposure leads to sex-specific neurobehavioral outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A cell-based developmental neurotoxicity assay was employed.
- Maternal mice (C57BL/6N) were exposed to TBBPA during gestation and lactation.
- Offspring underwent behavioral testing (motor function, memory, social interaction) and gene expression analysis.
Main Results:
- The cell-based assay confirmed TBBPA as a developmental neurotoxicant.
- Offspring exposed to TBBPA exhibited sex-specific behavioral deficits.
- Females showed impaired motor ability, while males displayed deficits in motor function, memory, and social interaction. Gene expression changes were validated.
Conclusions:
- Perinatal TBBPA exposure negatively impacts offspring neurodevelopment and behavior.
- The study identified sex-specific neurotoxic effects of TBBPA.
- Findings underscore the need for further research into TBBPA's multifaceted toxicity.
