Hexacarbon neuropathy: tracking a toxin

Abstract

This paper will present the progression of hexacarbon studies which followed the investigation of circumstances surrounding the occurrence of peripheral neuropathy in an occupational setting. The identification of methyl n-butyl ketone as the neurotoxin led to systematic studies of the biotransformation and mechanism of neurotoxicity. A consistent line of evidence showed that the neurotoxic potential of hexacarbons is directly related to the formation of the gamma-diketone metabolite, 2,5-hexanedione. The precise nature of the chemical interaction at the neurofilament is the subject of continuing investigation.