Mammalian wildlife as complementary models in environmental neurotoxicology

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the benefits of mammalian wildlife as models in environmental neurotoxicology. This is first addressed by discussing the general advantages of using mammalian wildlife as models, and highlighting how studies on mammalian wildlife can complement neurotoxicological studies in laboratory animals and humans. Second, specific examples are provided using three persistent, environmental contaminants of neurotoxic concern to humans, namely methylmercury (MeHg), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Through these examples we show that studies on mammalian wildlife can provide important, real-world information on bioavailability, environmental exposures, early and sub-clinical effects (e.g., alterations in brain neurochemistry and neuroendocrine hormones), and clinical neurotoxicity (structural and functional damage). In many cases neurotoxicological outcomes are similar across mammalian species adding weight of evidence to causal relationships. Our review highlights that an opportunity exists to use mammalian wildlife to better understand the human health risks posed by environmental neurotoxicants.