Sex-specific associations between co-exposure to multiple metals and visuospatial learning in early adolescence.

ABSTRACT: The predisposition, severity, and progression of many diseases differ between males and females. Sex-related differences in susceptibility to neurotoxicant exposures may provide insight into the cause of the observed discrepancy. Early adolescence, a period of substantial structural and functional brain changes, may present a critical window of vulnerability to environmental exposures. This study aimed to examine sex-specific associations between co-exposure to multiple metals and visuospatial memory in early adolescence. Manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu) were measured in blood, urine, hair, nails, and saliva of 188 participants (88 girls; 10-14 years of age). Visuospatial memory skills were assessed using a computerized maze task, the virtual radial arm maze (VRAM)

SUBMITTER: Rechtman E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7578810 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature