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Neurotoxicity of nanoparticles entering the brain via sensory nerve-to-brain pathways: injuries and mechanisms

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Abstract

Nanoparticles induce neurotoxicity following inhalation, oral administration, intravenous administration, or injection. Different pathways have various corresponding characteristics. Among them, the sensory nerve-to-brain pathways, which are direct neural pathways, bypass barriers such as the blood–brain barrier, which prevents the entry of the majority of nanoparticles into the brain. Subsequently, nanoparticles exert effects on sensory neuroreceptors and sensory nerves, causing central neurotoxicity. However, no studies have summarized sensory nerve-to-brain pathways for transporting nanoparticles. Here, we review recent findings on the potential sensory nerve pathways that promote nanoparticle entry into the brain, the effects of NPs on sensory receptors and sensory nerves, the central neurotoxicity induced by nanoparticles via sensory nerve pathways, and the possible mechanisms underlying these effects. In addition, the limitations of current research and possible trends for future research are also discussed. In summary, we hope that this review will serve as a reference, inspire ideas for further research into the neurotoxicity of nanoparticles, and facilitate the development of protective measures and treatment schemes for nanoparticle-induced neurotoxicity.

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Data sharing not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

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Funding

This study was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFC1102601), National Natural Science Foundation of China (81870786 and 81701026), Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province, China (201803031041) and President Foundation of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University (2016C005 and 2017B020).

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All authors contributed to the design and concept of this article. YL drafted the manuscript. CH and AC critically revised the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Longquan Shao.

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The authors declare no conflicts of interest with the contents of this article.

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Lin, Y., Hu, C., Chen, A. et al. Neurotoxicity of nanoparticles entering the brain via sensory nerve-to-brain pathways: injuries and mechanisms. Arch Toxicol 94, 1479–1495 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-020-02701-w

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-020-02701-w

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