Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
The study explored how perinatal exposure to di-n-octyltin dichloride (DOTC), an immune-suppressant chemical, affects brain development in rats. The research revealed that prenatal exposure to DOTC altered brain structure and function. Using advanced imaging techniques like MRI and PET, combined with gene expression profiling, the study identified significant changes in brain volume and metabolism, particularly in regions such as the cerebellum and hippocampus. These alterations were accompanied by behavioral changes like hyper-responsiveness and hyperactivity in the exposed rats.
Who is affected?
This research is particularly relevant to public health professionals, toxicologists, and industries involved in the production of PVC products containing DOTC or similar chemicals. It also impacts regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA, which set standards for environmental chemicals in consumer goods. Populations at risk include pregnant individuals and developing fetuses, particularly those exposed to such chemicals through environmental contamination or industrial products. The study also has implications for the safety standards concerning immune-suppressant and neurotoxic chemicals.
Most important findings
The study found that exposure to DOTC during perinatal development led to increased brain volume in certain regions at postnatal day 21 (PND 21), with specific changes observed in the cerebellum, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. By PND 61, these changes were less pronounced, suggesting a time-dependent effect. Further, PET scans revealed increased brain metabolism at younger ages, followed by normalization. Gene expression analysis identified disruptions in critical genes associated with neurodevelopment and immune system functioning. The study suggests a link between immune system disruption and altered brain development.
Key implications
For the food industry, particularly those manufacturing products containing PVC or using DOTC as a stabilizer, the findings highlight the potential long-term effects of exposure to this compound, particularly on neurodevelopment in offspring. The results emphasize the need for tighter regulations on chemical exposures in consumer products, especially those that may affect vulnerable populations. Regulatory bodies should consider these findings when reviewing safety standards for chemicals used in food packaging and other consumer goods. Public health efforts may need to focus on reducing exposure to such compounds, particularly during pregnancy, to mitigate potential neurodevelopmental risks.
Citation
de Groot, D. M. G., Linders, L., Kayser, R., Nederlof, R., de Esch, C., Slieker, R. C., … de Vries, E. F. J. (2023). Perinatal exposure to the immune-suppressant di-n-octyltin dichloride affects brain development in rats. Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, 34(3), 283–299. https://doi.org/10.1080/15376516.2023.2281610
