Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department of Pharmacology, RBVRR Women’s College of Pharmacy, Affiliated to Osmania University, Barkathpura, Hyderabad, Telangana-500027, India
2
Department of Pharmacology RBVRR Women’s College of Pharmacy Affiliated to Osmania University, Barkathpura, Hyderabad, Telangana-500027, India
10.30476/tips.2024.103641.1253
Abstract
Background:Aluminium chloride (AlCl₃) is a prevalent environmental pollutant found in food and drinking water. Epidemiological studies suggest a strong link between AlCl₃ exposure and neurodegenerative disorders, especially Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AlCl₃ disrupts normal brain function, potentially leading to oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and cognitive decline, all of which are implicated in AD pathology. Methods: This review compiled and analysed data from 59 studies, accessed through academic databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer, Science Direct, Wiley, Scopus, and Research Gate. The focus was specifically on the neurotoxic effects of AlCl₃, drawing insights into its impact on brain structure, function, and behaviour. Results: Findings from the reviewed studies reveal that AlCl₃ exposure leads to increased aluminium accumulation in brain tissues, resulting in structural damage and neurotoxic effects. This accumulation affects cognitive functions and behaviour, with histological analyses showing signs of neurodegeneration. Behavioural changes and impaired cognitive abilities observed in animal and cellular models suggest that AlCl₃ disrupts neural pathways critical to learning and memory. Conclusion: The evidence indicates a significant association between AlCl₃ exposure and neurodegenerative damage, especially in the context of AD. This review emphasizes the need for further research into AlCl₃'s neurotoxic mechanisms to clarify its role in AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Enhanced understanding may help develop preventive measures and regulations to mitigate the health risks posed by aluminium exposure in daily life.
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