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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:37
Microglia as a Surrogate Biosensor to Determine Nanoparticle Neurotoxicity
Published on: October 25, 2016
Particulate Matter Induced Neurotoxicity: Interplay of Neuroinflammation and Organelle Dysfunction
H Abhirami1, Amy S Mathew1, C Guruvayoorappan1
1Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College Campus, Research Centre, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
Journal of Applied Toxicology : JAT
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Air pollution's fine particulate matter (PM) enters the brain, causing neuroinflammation and cell death. This review details how PM2.5 and other particles damage the central nervous system (CNS).
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM), is a significant global health concern.
- PM is classified by aerodynamic diameter (PM10, PM2.5, PM0.1), with smaller particles posing greater risks.
- PM affects multiple organ systems and can impact the central nervous system (CNS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms by which PM affects CNS components.
- To elucidate how PM exposure leads to neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity.
- To examine the upstream and downstream molecular pathways involved in PM-induced neurotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies investigating PM effects on the CNS.
- Analysis of pathways including blood-brain barrier disruption, olfactory bulb transport, and peripheral responses.
- Examination of cellular stress responses like unfolded protein response (UPR), apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Inhaled PM can reach the brain via the olfactory bulb or peripheral pathways, disrupting the blood-brain barrier.
- PM exposure triggers neuroinflammation and oxidative stress through UPR activation, proapoptotic signaling (CHOP, caspase-12), and impaired mitochondrial function.
- PM compromises autophagic flux and lysosomal integrity, leading to cellular accumulation and neuronal energy failure.
Conclusions:
- Particulate matter poses a significant threat to the CNS, contributing to neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of PM neurotoxicity is crucial for developing preventative and therapeutic strategies.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between PM exposure and brain health.
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