The Role of Environmental Pollutants in the Formation of Prenatal Neurodegeneration

Background: Neurodegeneration is the progressive loss of neurons' structural and functional components, a common feature of many neurodegenerative disorders. Its neurological side effects may significantly impact patients' mental and physical health. Due to their widespread prevalence, some neurodegenerative pathologies have gained international attention in recent years. Although its etiology is not fully known, it is suggested that environmental factors and genetic predisposition are responsible. Understanding the mechanisms that drive the development of neurodegenerative diseases will allow the development of new therapeutic strategies for their prevention and treatment. In particular, the postnatal effects of prenatal exposure have been investigated for many years. Summary: It has been long known the role of pregnancy-related factors on brain development and the impact of intrauterine changes on the development of many neurodegenerative diseases. The main mechanisms crucial in neurodegeneration are loss of neuronal function and cell death. Currently, the drugs used in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases are used for symptomatic treatment and cannot stop the process of neuron loss. Identifying molecular commonalities of neurodegenerative diseases will help discover effective drugs for treating neurodegenerative diseases in the future. Key Messages: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of environmental neurotoxic exposures on prenatal neurodegeneration, the specific sensitivity of the nervous system to toxicant exposure, and the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. In a pathophysiological context, deciphering these mechanisms of prenatal neurodegeneration contributes to the discovery of therapeutic targets.