A popular chemical alternative to bisphenol A (BPA), known for use in plastic water bottles and food cans, is of concern that it could “seriously damage” the human brain.
A new study by scientists at the University of Bayreuth in Germany examined the impact of both BPA and its chemical cousin Bisphenol S (BPS) on the nerve cells of goldfish.
“We were surprised how much vital brain functions in fish are affected by the plasticizers used in many industries,” Elisabeth Schirmer, the study’s lead author, told News Atlas. “As we could demonstrate, this damage does not occur immediately. However, if the brain cells are exposed to small amounts of BPA or BPS for a month, the damage is undeniable. “
According to a 2018 report, both BPA and BPS are used as color developers, and many companies make their coupons with these chemicals.
A report by researchers at the State University of New York in Albany and the Chinese Academy of Sciences noted that nearly 90 percent of human exposure to BPD can be traced to receipts.
The University of Bayreuth study focused on the Mauthner cells in goldfish, which are the two largest nerve cells in fish brains, according to the outlet. The cells are part of all sensory stimuli and help vertebrates to escape from predators.
The study showed a disturbance in the functioning of nervous system functions and a disturbance in the processing of acoustic and visual stimuli.
Scientists working on the study believe that the effects of the goldfish can be mimicked by exposure to BPS and BPA in humans.
“The findings obtained from fish brain research justify the assessment that BPA and BPS can also cause serious damage to the brains of adult humans,” said study author Dr. Peter Machnik. “Against this background, it is essential that science and industry develop new plasticisers to replace these bisphenols while being safe for human health.”
Manufacturers using BPD in their products have put “BPA-free” labels on packaging despite a 2020 study that BPD “could fundamentally change the development of the fetal brain,” News Atlas said.
In recent years, there have been reports of BPA and BPD linked to childhood obesity and the altering of hormones in teens.