Are human neurodegenerative disorders linked to environmental chemicals with excitotoxic properties

Journal Article · Mon May 11 04:00:00 EDT 1992 · Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.1992.tb24533.x· OSTI ID:7184869

Spencer, P S; Ludolph, A C; Kisby, G E ^[1]

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1. Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland (United States)

At the present time, it seems unlikely that progressive neurodegenerative diseases, such as ALS, Parkinson's disease, and dementia of the Alzheimer type, are triggered by environmental agents with excitotoxic potential. These include excitotoxic agents that behave as glutamate agonists or disrupt energy metabolism: both types elicit permanent but self-limiting neuronal diseases with patterns of neuronal deficit that reflect selective chemical exposure (MPP+ and parkinsonism), differential susceptibility to energy dysmetabolism (NPA and dystonia), or the distribution of glutamate-receptors (domoic acid and memory loss). If environmental agents play an etiologic role in progressive neurodegenerative diseases, they are likely to target a critical, irreplaceable neuronal molecule that is required to maintain long-term neuronal integrity.41 references.

• OSTI ID: 7184869
• Journal Information: Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences; (United States), Journal Name: Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences; (United States) Vol. 648; ISSN 0077-8923; ISSN ANYAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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