Pervasive environmental chemicals impair oligodendrocyte development.

ABSTRACT: Exposure to environmental chemicals can impair neurodevelopment^1-4. Oligodendrocytes that wrap around axons to boost neurotransmission may be particularly vulnerable to chemical toxicity as they develop throughout fetal development and into adulthood^5,6. However, few environmental chemicals have been assessed for potential risks to oligodendrocyte development. Here, we utilized a high-throughput developmental screen and human cortical brain organoids, which revealed environmental chemicals in two classes that disrupt oligodendrocyte development through distinct mechanisms. Quaternary compounds, ubiquitous in disinfecting agents, hair conditioners, and fabric softeners, were potently and selectively cytotoxic to developing oligodendrocytes through activation of the int

SUBMITTER: Cohn EF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9934656 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature