Ultrafines’ Quick Neurological Hit: Particles Take a Direct Route to the Brain
2006
Ultrafine Particles and Their Quick Journey to the Brain
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Bob Weinhold
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Can inhaled ultrafine manganese oxide particles rapidly accumulate in the brain and lungs?
Conclusion
Inhaled ultrafine manganese oxide particles can quickly accumulate in the brain and lungs without causing obvious lung inflammation.
Supporting Evidence
- Inhaled manganese concentrations in the olfactory bulb increased about 3.5-fold after exposure.
- Lung manganese concentrations doubled after 12 days of exposure.
- Markers of inflammation in the brain increased by 2- to 30-fold.
Takeaway
Tiny particles from the air can get into our brains really fast, and they don't need to dissolve to do it.
Methodology
Rats inhaled manganese oxide ultrafines for six hours a day over 12 days, and their tissue distribution was evaluated.
Limitations
The study was conducted on rats, which may not fully represent human responses.
Participant Demographics
Rats were used in the study.
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