Lead is a deceptive element. It’s malleable and durable, which is why it was used in piping and added to paint for many years. However, it’s also extremely poisonous. It can cause a variety of health problems, from rashes and abdominal pain to anemia. The most serious effects, however, occur in the brain, particularly in children. It can cause headaches, memory loss, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and seizures. Children don’t even have to be exposed directly. Women who ingest lead can store it in their bones and pass it on to their children during pregnancy, damaging their brains. Lead poisoning remains a significant problem in the US today, not just in communities like Flint, Michigan.
Lead interferes with our brains in several ways. To understand these, we need to briefly look at how brain cells, or neurons, communicate. Neurons have a long tail called an “axon” at one end, and branch-like structures called “dendrites” at the other. They communicate when the axon from one cell sends chemical signals to another cell’s dendrites. The receiving cell can then pass the message on to another neuron. This communication happens in a tiny gap between the cells called the “synapse”.
Lead can block these chemical signals from being sent. It can also weaken the synapse, the connection between your neurons, over time. For neurons to maintain a strong connection, the axon needs to know that the dendrite is receiving its messages. The dendrite produces a molecule called BDNF that strengthens the axon and dendrite’s relationship. However, the cell needs calcium to produce BDNF. Calcium usually enters the dendrite through channels, which open when a signal is received. Lead jams these channels, preventing calcium from entering and stopping BDNF production. This causes the connections between brain cells to weaken.
In adults, having poor connections between neurons is harmful enough. But in children, with their rapidly growing brains, it’s particularly dangerous. The amount of lead needed to cause brain damage in children is much smaller because their brains are making and removing new connections at much faster rates. Unfortunately, in the past, there haven’t been effective treatments for lead poisoning, particularly for its effects on the brain.
Recently, scientists have shown that by adding a BDNF substitute, neurons may be able to recover. A video demonstrates this process. On the left are normal cells, in the middle are cells exposed to lead, and on the right are cells exposed to lead that have been given BDNF. When the green dye disappears, it means that the neurons can send their chemical signals. The green starts to disappear in the cells with additional BDNF, even though they’ve been exposed to lead.
We’re still a long way from using BDNF as a cure for lead poisoning. This isn’t even being tested on humans yet. The primary goal should be to prevent exposure to lead in the first place. However, this research offers hope that one day, lead poisoning may be much more treatable. This is good news, as today, at least 4 million American households with children are exposed to high levels of lead.
Research more about the effects of lead on the human body, especially the brain. Write a short essay summarizing your findings. Be sure to include how lead affects the communication between neurons.
Investigate a real-life case of lead poisoning, such as the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Create a presentation detailing the causes, effects, and responses to the crisis.
Research more about the molecule BDNF and its role in the brain. Create a diagram showing how BDNF strengthens the connection between neurons and how lead interferes with this process.
Brainstorm ways to prevent lead exposure in homes and communities. Create a poster or infographic that could be used to educate the public about these prevention strategies.
Based on the article and your own research, write a short report on potential future treatments for lead poisoning. Include a discussion of the use of BDNF or its substitutes.
lead – a heavy, bluish-grey, soft, malleable, and ductile metal, used especially in containers, pipes, and radiation shielding. – The plumber used a lead pipe to fix the leak.
poisonous – capable of causing illness or death when consumed or absorbed. – The berries on that plant are poisonous, so be careful not to eat them.
health problems – conditions or diseases that affect the physical or mental well-being of an individual. – Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to various health problems such as obesity and heart disease.
brain – the organ inside the head that controls thought, memory, feelings, and activity. – The brain is responsible for processing information and sending signals to the rest of the body.
children – young humans who are not yet adults. – The playground was filled with children playing and laughing.
neurons – specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit information between different parts of the body. – Neurons play a vital role in the communication and functioning of the nervous system.
communication – the act of exchanging information or ideas between individuals or groups. – Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships and resolving conflicts.
synapse – a junction between two nerve cells, where electrical or chemical signals are transmitted. – The neurotransmitters cross the synapse to deliver messages between neurons.
connections – links or associations between different things or people. – Building strong connections with others can open doors to new opportunities and personal growth.
BDNF – brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that is involved in the growth, development, and maintenance of neurons. – BDNF plays a crucial role in promoting neuroplasticity and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.
brain damage – injury or harm to the brain that can result in various cognitive, physical, or psychological impairments. – A severe concussion can lead to long-term brain damage and memory loss.
treatments – medical or therapeutic approaches used to alleviate symptoms or cure diseases. – Chemotherapy and radiation are common treatments for cancer.
future – a period of time that is yet to come. – It’s important to plan for the future and set goals to achieve personal and professional success.
