Some Common Household Chemicals May Harm Key Brain Cell, Study Finds

A new study suggests some common household chemicals may be linked to brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders.

Researchers say these chemicals, which are found in a wide range of items from furniture to hair products,

affect specialized brain cells called oligodendrocytes (pronouncer: oligo-dendro-sites) that generate the protective layer around nerve cells.

Loss of oligodendrocytes is a factor in MS and other neurological diseases.

The researchers conducted lab tests on more than 18 hundred chemicals and identified two classes they say damaged or killed these cells

…quaternary ammonium compounds, which are found in many personal-care products and disinfectants

And organophosphate flame retardants, which are present in many electronics and furniture.

The team also demonstrated damage in the developing brains of mice, according to the results.

The lead author says, “Understanding human exposure to these chemicals may help explain a missing link in how some neurological diseases arise.”

She says she hopes these findings lead to more informed regulatory decisions

or “behavioral interventions to minimize chemical exposure and protect human health.”