Also discussed here: Toxic air pollution particles found in human brains (Guardian, Sep. 5, 2016)
And here: 'Air pollution' particles linked to Alzheimer's found in human brain (Sarah Knapton, The Telegraph, Sep. 5, 2016)
Today we review research that has found tiny iron oxide [magnetite] particulates, produced by diesel engines as well as from brake wear in cars and trains, can enter the human brain where they pose a risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s which affects more than 5 million people over 65 in the USA alone.Researchers found magnetite in the brains of 37 people in their study areas of Manchester and Mexico.
Key Quotes:
"Our results indicate that magnetite nanoparticles in the atmosphere can enter the human brain where they might pose a risk to human health, including conditions such as Alzheimer's'”
“Magnetite - a form of iron oxide - is known to be produced in car engines - particularly diesel engines which can emit up to 22 times more particulates than petrol engines - as well as when brakes are used, both by cars and trains”
“Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of irreversible dementia among older people, affecting more than 5 million patients older than 65 years in the USA alone”
“Researchers at Lancaster, Oxford and Manchester Universities discovered microscopic spheres of the mineral magnetite in the brains of 37 people in Manchester and Mexico who had suffered neurodegenerative disease.”
“Air pollution has already been implicated in lung disease and heart attacks and recent studies have suggested that it could also be a factor in cognitive decline with a US study in 2014 showing that people in highly polluted areas were 50 per cent more likely to suffer mental decline. “
“magnetite particles interacting with in vitro neuronal networks showed no side effects, but when combined with Aβ [amyloid-β plaque cores (APC)] caused significant deterioration in neuronal functions and connectivity”
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