Adverse effects and mechanisms induced by legacy, emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on neuron: Human
Rencan Zeng1, Guanghua Mao1, Yao Chen1
1School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Key Laboratory of Zhenjiang, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China.
Abstract:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), due to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics, are emerging pollutants that are widely used as raw materials in industrial production, leading to their ubiquitous presence in the environment, plants and animals. Humans may also face health risks from exposure to PFASs. This paper reviews that the different populations are exposed to PFASs in their daily lives through diet, drinking water, indoor air, and assess the health risks to susceptible populations from various exposure pathways. Research has shown that PFASs can persist in organisms for a long time and can cross the blood-brain barrier, accumulating in the brain. Additionally, experimental studies on animals have demonstrated the occurrence of neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by PFASs, including behavioral problems, alterations to neurotransmitters, and brain tissue lesions. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that PFASs are associated with adverse outcomes in susceptible populations, including cognitive function, learning, memory, and motor function. Finally, this paper elucidates the potential mechanisms from the perspectives of disrupted signaling pathways, synaptic plasticity, and endocrine disruption. It demonstrates that PFASs may alter neuronal synaptic structures, leading to abnormal neurotransmitter secretion and affecting intracellular calcium homeostasis and calcium signaling. It is hoped that this review will provide a reference for further research on the neurodevelopmental toxicity and health risks of PFASs.
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