Association of blood lead level with neurobehavior and neurotransmitter expressions in Indian children

Present study aimed to assess the alterations in neurotransmitter expression and its association with Blood Lead Level (BLL) and neurobehavioral pattern in children. 72 school going children were recruited. Blood lead levels were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Neurobehavioral state was assessed by means of population specific scale i.e. CPMS (Childhood Psychopathological measurement Schedule). Serum serotonin and dopamine were estimated by ELISA, receptor and transporter gene expressions were assessed by quantitative real time PCR. Significant positive correlation was observed between Total CPMS score (i.e. adverse neurobehaviour) and BLL. Further, serum serotonin levels and dopamine receptor expression showed a negative and positive association with BLL, respectively. In similarity, serum serotonin levels showed a negative correlation and dopamine receptor expression had a significant positive correlation with total CPMS score. Environmental exposure to Lead (Pb) may result in significant alterations in the neurotransmitter levels which may be associated with neurobehavioral changes in the children exposed to Pb.