Investigation of the Neurotoxic Effects of Dimethyl Phthalate and Diisobutyl Phthalate on SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors, particularly phthalates like Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) and Diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), are prevalent environmental contaminants posing significant health risks. This study investigates the combined neurotoxic effects of DMP and DiBP on SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells by analyzing cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Using MTT and Neutral Red Uptake assays, we determined the IC50 values for DMP and DiBP as 11.35 mM and 1.307 mM, respectively. Flow cytometry revealed increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels, indicating oxidative stress, while apoptosis assays showed enhanced cell death with combined phthalate exposure. The results demonstrate a synergistic effect, exacerbating cytotoxic and oxidative damage beyond individual exposures. This study highlights the compounded risk of phthalate mixtures, urging comprehensive risk assessments and regulatory policies to mitigate human health risks from combined chemical exposures.