Impact of BPA on behavior, neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA), a compound used in the manufacturing of plastics and epoxy resins, is an endocrine disruptor with significant adverse impact on the human's health. Here, we review the animal models and clinical studies as well as the molecular and cellular mechanisms that show that BPA alters the normal function of the reproductive system, metabolism, brain function and behavior and contributes to the development of certain neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum and attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorders. BPA also causes aberrant cognitive function, behavioral disturbances, and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis. It has recently been proposed that exposure to BPA may be associated with the development of certain neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders; however, it is a line of research that is just emerging. This work aims to review the available information about the association between exposure to BPA and cognitive function, behavioral disturbances, neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson�s Disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis), and neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism Spectrum and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders). Likewise, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that may be involved with these pathological conditions will be analyzed.