Neurotoxic effects of pesticides: Implications for neurodegenerative and neurobehavioral disorders

Title: Neurotoxic effects of pesticides: Implications for neurodegenerative and neurobehavioral disorders

There is increasing evidence linking the widespread use of pesticides to neurotoxic effects that contribute to both neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent years, new classes of pesticides such as neonicotinoids and pyrethroids have garnered attention due to their potential to disrupt neurodevelopment, even at low exposure levels.

Emerging evidence underscores the involvement of the gut–brain axis, neuroinflammation, and epigenetic modulation in pesticide-induced neuropathology. This review aimed to synthesise the latest advancements in our understanding while highlighting under-explored mechanisms, thereby offering a comprehensive and current perspective on pesticide-related neurotoxicity.

Data from the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) indicates that several food products include residues of pesticides recognised for their neurotoxic properties. Although environmental exposure levels are lower than those in occupational contexts, the magnitude and persistence of food-based exposure demand thorough evaluation.

The review integrates this evidence from epidemiological, in vivo and in vitro investigations to emphasise the correlations between pesticide exposure and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and cognitive deficits in children.

Neurodevelopmental toxicity is especially alarming since symptoms may manifest subtly and with a delayed onset after early-life exposure, indicating the significant neurotoxic potential of pesticide residues and emphasising the need for their careful evaluation in food safety assessments. Improved regulatory procedures and public health efforts are essential to reducing long-term brain damage.

Botnaru, A. A., Lupu, A., Morariu, P. C., Jităreanu, A., Nedelcu, A. H., Morariu, B. A., Anton, E., Di Gioia, M. L., Lupu, V. V., Dragostin, O. M., Vieriu, M., & Morariu, I. D. (2025). Neurotoxic Effects of Pesticides: Implications for Neurodegenerative and Neurobehavioral Disorders. Journal of Xenobiotics, 15(3), 83.

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