Glyphosate risk: New study links pesticide to brain damage
Scientists from Arizona State University warn that glyphosate, one of the more popular pesticides, may lead to permanent brain damage. Even doses previously considered safe are harmful.
Research conducted by scientists at Arizona State University has shown that exposure to glyphosate, a commonly used pesticide, may lead to permanent brain damage. The results published in the "Journal of Neuroinflammation" indicate that even short-term exposure to this herbicide causes significant inflammation in the brain, similar to that observed in Alzheimer's disease.
The studies were conducted on mice, suggesting that the brain is much more susceptible to the adverse effects of glyphosate than previously thought.
Glyphosate and brain health
Glyphosate is one of the most commonly used herbicides in the world. In Poland, 92 plant protection products containing this substance have been registered. Research suggests that glyphosate exposure can lead to neurodegenerative changes, premature death, and anxiety disorders.
Additionally, it has been proven that a metabolite of glyphosate, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), accumulates in the brain tissues of the tested animals. This raises concerns about the safety of its use in humans.
The research shows that even after a six-month recovery period during which contact with the herbicide was halted, symptoms did not subside. As noted by Prof. Ramon Velazquez, one of the study's authors, the scientists' work provides further evidence of the brain's susceptibility to glyphosate.
Given the growing prevalence of cognitive disorders among the aging population, especially in rural regions where glyphosate is commonly applied, there is a pressing need for further investigation into the impact of this herbicide, he notes.
Glyphosate is common and harmful
Glyphosate is widely used in agriculture, especially in corn, soybeans, sugar beets, alfalfa, wheat, and cotton crops. Its use has increased since 1996 when plant varieties resistant to it were developed. The widespread use increases the risk for farmers, who are most exposed to its harmful effects. The substance enters the body through the skin and respiratory tract.
However, glyphosate is present throughout the food chain, penetrating the air, soil, and surface waters. As a result, the majority of the U.S. population has been exposed to it. Consuming food with glyphosate residues poses a potential health risk.
Need for further research
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizes certain levels of glyphosate as safe, but an increasing number of studies, including the one discussed, question these limits. Glyphosate and its metabolites can cross the blood-brain barrier, indicating the need to reassess its safety. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies it as "possibly carcinogenic to humans."
Scientists in Arizona studied the impact of glyphosate on two types of mice: healthy and genetically modified to develop symptoms similar to Alzheimer's disease. In both cases, an increase in the level of inflammatory markers in the brain and blood was observed.
Two doses were tested: a large one, similar to that known from previous studies, and a lower one, corresponding to the permissible dose for humans. Even short-term exposure to doses considered safe can lead to long-term changes in brain function.
The publication's authors highlighted that even brief exposure to glyphosate can trigger lasting inflammatory processes that harm brain health. They hoped their findings would inspire additional research into its potential health effects.
