Cognitive Impairment Induced by Lead Exposure during Lifespan: Mechanisms of Lead Neurotoxicity

Abstract

Lead (Pb) is considered a strong environmental toxin with human health repercussions. Due to its widespread use and the number of people potentially exposed to different sources of this heavy metal, Pb intoxication is recognized as a public health problem in many countries. Exposure to Pb can occur through ingestion, inhalation, dermal, and transplacental routes. The magnitude of its effects depends on several toxicity conditions: lead speciation, doses, time, and age of exposure, among others. It has been demonstrated that Pb exposure induces stronger effects during early life. The central nervous system is especially vulnerable to Pb toxicity; Pb exposure is linked to cognitive impairment, executive function alterations, abnormal social behavior, and fine motor control perturbations. This review aims to provide a general view of the cognitive consequences associated with Pb exposure during early life as well as during adulthood. Additionally, it describes the neurotoxic mechanisms associated with cognitive impairment induced by Pb, which include neurochemical, molecular, and morphological changes that jointly could have a synergic effect on the cognitive performance.

The effects of the exposure to neurotoxic elements on Italian schoolchildren behavior

“…Through this and the previous work Lucchini et al 2019, we were able to observe an association of Pb on both behavior and cognition. These adverse effects of Pb were also showed by other studies 34 , 35 and were associated to alterations in DNA and chromosomal integrity, interaction with proteins 36 and alteration to cellular redox status 37 .…”

Combined Exposure to Metals in Drinking Water Alters the Dopamine System in Mouse Striatum

“…Epidemiological studies have reported that chronic exposure to As through drinking water results in impaired development of intellectual function in children, as well as reduced sensory and motor function [ 7 , 8 ]. Likewise, Pb exposure is known to be related to cognitive impairment, executive function alterations, and fine motor control perturbations [ 9 ]. In addition, increased blood Cd is reported to be associated with worsened cognitive function and motor skills [ 10 , 11 ].…”

Neurotoxic Agents and Peripheral Neuropathy

“…Lead is a toxic heavy metal in different sources such as contaminated drinking water, battery manufacture, cosmetics, leaded gasoline, lead-based paint, cans, glazed ceramics, traditional herbal medicine products, water pipes, jewelry, tobacco smoke, and electronic cigarettes, and toys. Lead exposure can be considered a public health concern, especially in early childhood, because children have increased hand-to-mouth activity, so they are more at risk [13,14]. While the half-life of Pb in the bloodstream is about 35 days, it is stored in bones for approximately 30 years [15,16].…”