Erin F Cohn, Benjamin L L Clayton, Mayur Madhavan, Kristin A Lee, Sara Yacoub, Yuriy Fedorov, Marissa A Scavuzzo, Katie Paul Friedman, Timothy J Shafer, Paul J Tesar
Exposure to environmental chemicals can impair neurodevelopment, and oligodendrocytes may be particularly vulnerable, as their development extends from gestation into adulthood. However, few environmental chemicals have been assessed for potential risks to oligodendrocytes. Here, using a high-throughput developmental screen in cultured cells, we identified environmental chemicals in two classes that disrupt oligodendrocyte development through distinct mechanisms. Quaternary compounds, ubiquitous in disinfecting agents and personal care products, were potently and selectively cytotoxic to developing oligodendrocytes, whereas organophosphate flame retardants, commonly found in household items such as furniture and electronics, prematurely arrested oligodendrocyte maturation...
March 25, 2024: Nature Neuroscience