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Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine researchers recently shed light on the detrimental effects of common household chemicals on brain health.

Their new study, published in Nature Neuroscience, showed the potential link between chemicals present in everyday items and the development of neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders.

Led by principal investigator Paul Tesar, the study delved into the adverse impact of certain household chemicals on oligodendrocytes -- a specialized cell type crucial for nerve cell protection.

Tesar, the Dr. Donald and Ruth Weber Goodman Professor of Innovative Therapeutics, noted the significance of understanding the role of environmental factors in neurological diseases, given that only a fraction of cases can be attributed to genetics alone.

"Loss of oligodendrocytes underlies multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases," Tesar explained, SciTech Daily reported. 

"We now show that specific chemicals in consumer products can directly harm oligodendrocytes, representing a previously unrecognized risk factor for neurological disease."

The research identified two classes of chemicals, organophosphate flame retardants and quaternary ammonium compounds, as major culprits in damaging oligodendrocytes.

These chemicals, commonly found in furniture, electronics and personal-care products, reportedly pose a significant risk to brain health.

Lead author Erin Cohn, a graduate student in the School of Medicine's Medical Scientist Training Program, stressed the vulnerability of oligodendrocytes to these chemicals, noting the urgent need for further investigation into human exposure and its neurological implications.

The study's findings, validated through laboratory experiments on cellular and organoid systems, revealed alarming insights into the potential neurotoxicity of household chemicals.

Additionally, exposure to these chemicals during critical developmental stages in mice showed the importance of understanding their impact on human health.

The researchers urged regulatory measures and behavioral interventions to minimize chemical exposure and safeguard human health.