Exploring the toxicological impact of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure on Alzheimer's disease via network toxicology and integrative bioinformatics analysis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates the potential involvement of the environmental contaminant di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) in the etiology and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Available data indicates that DEHP, a prevalent plasticizer capable of traversing the blood-brain barrier, can induce oxidative stress and other neurotoxic effects, potentially aggravating the etiology of Alzheimer's disease. The multi-target molecular pathways remain inadequately comprehended, and the existing research exhibits methodological deficiencies. We employed a comprehensive computational biology strategy that incorporated network toxicology, machine learning, and molecular docking techniques to systematically elucidate the neurotoxic pathways of DEHP. This approach aims to elucidate the theoretical foundations for environmental risk assessment and Alzheimer's disease biomarker identification by examining how DEHP may expedite the advancement of Alzheimer's disease through disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis and neuronal structural integrity. ● First integration of network toxicology, machine learning, and molecular docking reveals DEHP neurotoxicity. ● Multidimensional bioinformatics finds and tests key targets tying DEHP exposure to Alzheimer's mechanisms. ● Results provide basis for DEHP risk assessment and novel Alzheimer's prevention and therapeutic strategies.
Source: Brain Research Bulletin
Language: English
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,280
Awards: G2552697152, G312445454, G7363822018
OpenAlex ID: W4416265080