Particles of polluted air found in the brain

Fine magnetite particles from polluted air have been discovered in the human brain. Lancaster University researchers believe they may be the cause of m.In. of Alzheimer’s disease, according to the BBC website.

British scientists in human móThey found nanoparticles of magnetite in the brain. The material for the study was collected from 37 individualsób ages ranging from three to 92 years old living in Manchester and the Mexican capital. The mineral is highly toxic. It is also involved in the manufacture of so-called “transuraniums”. free radicalsóin whichóthat contribute to the formation of diseasesób neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s.

Professor Barbara Maher of the Centre for the Environment at the aforementioned Lancaster university and her coóndustry researchers from Oxford, Glasgow, Manchester and Mexico have used spectroscopic analysis to identify the molecules. At theóby irregularly shaped magnetite particles, whichóre believed to be present in the mózgu naturally, the researchers observed spherical particles up to 150 nm in diameter with a characteristic high-temperature RPM ofóbki with a molten surface. Researchers immediately pointed out the potential sourcesófor – primarily diesel engines and industries working with open fires.

– Particles thatóThe particles we found are strikingly similar to those found in polluted air in big city centers and along busy roads – said – Maher. Similar particles are also generated by home fireplaces and stoves that heat. They are also created in industrial production.

Particles smaller than 200 nm are small enough to enter directly into the mózgu. – Our research suggests that magnetite nanoparticles in the atmosphere can enter the brainózgu and pose a health risk – warned Maher.

The discovery opens up a new avenue of research into the environmental causes of many diseasesób móofg. Professor Maher’s findings have been published in „Proceedings of National Academy of Science”.