On January 13, 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reported 'Lead exposure' as a possible risk factor for causing Alzheimer's disease based on a study conducted at National Institute of Nutrition (NIN- ICMR)1 . Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common form of dementia which usually affects the functioning of memory, thinking and behavior in brain. The pathophysiology of Alzheimer's involves the formation of beta amyloid plaques and tangles in the brain. In addition, oxidative stress and inflammation are known to be involved in the progression of the disease, with loss of memory and neuronal cell death. In the early stage, dementia symptoms may be minimal, but with time the symptoms worsen. Currently there is no proven treatment available to halt and cure the Alzheimer's disease from progressing, but there are medications to treat symptoms of dementia.
Lead (Pb) a common pollutant found in the environment is released from a number of items like paints, cosmetics, batteries, and glass. As a toxic material, lead can cause pathophysiological dysfunctions of the central nervous system. A recent study conducted at ICMR- National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) has established the possible link between lead exposure and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, scientists are looking forward to find the possible molecular mechanism on lead induced Alzheimer's disease through in-vitro studies.
In in-vitro study, brain cells are accumulated with beta amyloid peptides in case of Alzheimer's disease and the effect of Lead exposure was then studied. The study showed increased cell death and increased levels of proapoptotic marker proteins. Further, the proteins involved in neurodevelopment and regeneration depleted. Such effects led to decreased expression levels of synaptophysin, finally leading to loss of memory as in Alzheimer's disease. Maternal exposure to lead during pregnancy may also lead to a higher risk and early onset of Alzheimer's disease in later life of the child.
Conclusion
There are numerous socio-economic factors which cause the progression of the disease. However, recently scientist have found that various pollutants such as lead exposure can also lead to disease progression and a team of scientists is working to find the cause and its treatment. Since lead exposure is possibly linked with Alzheimer's disease, the study will help to find out preventive measures for Alzheimer's caused due to lead exposure.
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