Air Pollutants and Neurological Disorders: From Exposure to Preventive Interventions

Abstract

Air pollutants are referred to as chemicals, particles, or biological materials in the air. They primarily affect the heart and lungs resulting in various cardiovascular and respiratory complications. However, the association of air pollutants with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and Stroke has been established. The air pollutants causing neurological disorders include nitrogen oxide, ozone, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, lead, and particulate matter. The majority of the air pollutants are anthropogenic, originating from human activities such as industrial processes, power generation, fossil fuel combustion, and use of vehicle engines. Natural sources of pollutants include volcanic eruptions and forest fires. These pollutants enter the body through inhalation and reach to the central nervous system (CNS) where they cause tissue damage in the brain and affect molecular, inflammatory, and cellular pathways. Several animal, human, and cell culture studies have demonstrated the relationship of air pollutants with neuroinflammation, CNS oxidative stress, neuron damage, blood–brain barrier changes, and cerebrovascular damage. Prevention from detrimental effects of air pollutants can be limited by maintaining air safety levels, making policies, developing surveillance system, and collaborating with organizations involved environmental sciences. Moreover, production of energy from natural sources such as wind and solar power is another effective measure to control to the air pollutants–induced neurological disorders.