Tests revealed dangerous neurotoxins, including high levels of lead, in the homes of wildfire-affected families like the Van Nesses, despite insurer claims of safety after surface-level cleanups. Experts criticize insurance industry practices for relying on outdated or incomplete science, which may leave homes contaminated and residents at risk of health issues. The family’s experience highlights broader concerns about inadequate remediation standards and the potential health impacts of wildfire smoke toxins.
Dolphins near Miami have been found to have brain toxins and Alzheimer’s-like disease markers, raising concerns about similar risks for humans due to increasing harmful algal blooms caused by climate change, which may impact coastal water safety and public health.
A recent study links exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a common industrial chemical, with a small but measurable increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, especially for those living near TCE-emitting facilities, highlighting concerns about environmental neurotoxins and their long-term health impacts.
A recent study links exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a common industrial chemical, with a small but measurable increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, especially for those living near TCE-emitting facilities, highlighting environmental factors in neurodegenerative disease risk.
Scientists have discovered that antivenom treatment for mamba snakebites can sometimes worsen symptoms by unmasking hidden neurological effects, with different mamba species causing either limp or spastic paralysis, and effectiveness varies based on venom variation across regions.
Commercial airplanes are exposing passengers and crew to neurotoxic fumes caused by oil and hydraulic leaks, with industry insiders and experts raising concerns about health risks and insufficient safety measures, despite known issues and regulatory efforts.
Scientists have linked the consumption of false morel mushrooms, which contain neurotoxins, to a cluster of ALS cases in a French village, highlighting the dangers of confusing toxic wild mushrooms with edible ones.
A French village's ALS cases linked to consumption of false morel mushrooms containing neurotoxins, highlighting the dangers of wild mushroom foraging and potential environmental contributors to neurodegenerative diseases.
A neurologist highlights three foods to avoid for optimal brain health: large tropical reef fish like barracuda and grouper due to ciguatoxin, undercooked pork because of parasitic infections like neurocysticercosis, and damaged tin cans which may contain deadly botulinum toxin. Cooking does not neutralize some toxins, making avoidance crucial for neurological safety.
New research conducted by scientists in South Korea has revealed that secondary microplastics, formed through the breakdown of larger plastic fragments in the environment, can trigger severe brain inflammation. The study found that continuous consumption of these secondary microplastics acts as neurotoxins in the brain, leading to increased inflammation and cell death. The findings highlight the harmfulness of microplastics and their potential impact on human health.
Feather-legged lace weavers, a type of spider, appear to immobilize their prey by dousing them in toxic digestive fluids. Unlike other spiders that inject venom through their fangs, these spiders produce neurotoxins in their gut. Researchers discovered RNA for potential toxins in the spiders' midgut gland, indicating that the digestive fluid may be toxic. This unique hunting strategy involves wrapping the prey in silk before covering them in fluids and consuming them. While they may not have venom glands, these spiders still use toxins in a distinct way.
University of Queensland researchers have discovered that some of the world's most painful ant stings target nerves, like snake and scorpion venom. The ant neurotoxins bind to the sodium channels and cause them to open more easily and stay open and active, which translates to a long-lasting pain signal. The research team believes that understanding pain at a molecular level can help develop new ways to treat it. Ants developed their defensive neurotoxins to fend off predators during the time of the dinosaurs and have since become one of the most successful animal groups on Earth.
