Assessment of the Developmental Neurotoxicity of Environmental Chemicals: Investigating the Mechanisms & Identifying Potential Biomarkers

Abstract

Background: Developmental neurotoxicity resulting from exposure to environmental chemicals is a significant public health concern. Understanding the mechanisms underlying such neurotoxicity and identifying potential biomarkers are essential for early detection and effective risk assessment. Objective: This study aimed to assess the developmental neurotoxicity of selected environmental chemicals and investigate the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the study sought to identify potential biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of developmental neurotoxicity. Methods: In vitro neurodevelopmental models were established, including neuronal cell cultures and organoid systems, to evaluate the neurotoxic effects of environmental chemicals. Key endpoints, such as neuronal viability, morphology, neurite outgrowth, synaptogenesis, and synaptic activity, were assessed using appropriate assays and imaging techniques. Mechanistic investigations involved exploring oxidative stress, inflammation, disruption of neurotransmitter systems, and interference with neurodevelopmental processes through gene expression analysis, protein profiling, and signaling pathway investigations. Results: Exposure of the in vitro models to selected environmental chemicals resulted in significant neurotoxic effects, including impaired neuronal viability, disrupted morphological development, and altered synaptic activity. Mechanistic investigations revealed the involvement of oxidative stress and disruption of neurotransmitter systems in the observed neurotoxicity. Furthermore, several potential biomarkers, including gene expression changes and epigenetic modifications, showed significant correlations with developmental neurotoxicity. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the developmental neurotoxicity of environmental chemicals in in vitro neurodevelopmental models. The findings highlight the role of oxidative stress and neurotransmitter disruption as key mechanisms underlying neurotoxic effects. Moreover, the identification of potential biomarkers provides promising avenues for early detection and monitoring of developmental neurotoxicity. These results contribute to a better understanding of the risks associated with environmental chemical exposure during neurodevelopment and have implications for risk assessment and regulatory guidelines.