NIN Study in Hyderabad Finds Lead Exposure Worsens Nerve Cell Damage

Exposure to lead can damage nerve cells, particularly when it occurs alongside amyloid-beta, according to a laboratory study conducted by researchers at the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition in Hyderabad.

The findings, published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology, evaluated the impact of lead and two forms of amyloid-beta—a protein associated with changes observed in certain brain diseases—on human nerve cells.

According to the NIN scientists, both lead and amyloid-beta caused damage when tested independently. However, when the human nerve cells were exposed to both substances simultaneously, the resulting damage was significantly greater, leading to reduced cell survival.

The combined exposure compromised lysosomes, the cellular structures tasked with clearing waste. It also altered proteins and genes responsible for supporting lysosomal health. The researchers found that the lysosomal membranes became weak and permeable, creating conditions that could allow harmful substances to spread within the cells.

Dr Suresh Challa, an NIN scientist and head of cell biology who led the investigation, noted that the findings demonstrate how lead exposure can significantly worsen lysosomal dysfunction in the presence of amyloid-beta.