Hyderabad: Exposure to lead may damage nerve cells, particularly when it occurs alongside amyloid-beta, a protein associated with changes seen in certain brain diseases, according to a study by researchers at the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN).The study, published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology, tested lead and two forms of amyloid-beta on human nerve cells in a laboratory. NIN scientists found that both caused some damage when tested separately. However, when the cells were exposed to both simultaneously, the damage was significantly greater.The combined exposure reduced cell survival and damaged lysosomes, the structures responsible for clearing cellular waste. It also affected proteins and genes that help maintain lysosomal health. The study found that lysosomal membranes became weak and permeable, potentially allowing harmful substances to spread within the cells.Dr Suresh Challa, NIN scientist and head of cell biology, who led the study, said, “Our findings show that lead exposure can significantly worsen lysosomal dysfunction in the presence of amyloid-beta.”He said understanding these changes could help explain how environmental exposure affects nerve health.NIN Director Dr Bharati Kulkarni said, “The study highlights the importance of understanding how environmental pollutants interact with the body.” She added that such research could help scientists better understand the biological processes involved in brain diseases.
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