Neurotoxicity of the Pesticide Rotenone on neuronal polarization: a mechanistic approach

BISBAL, MARIANO; SANCHEZ, M�NICA

NEURAL REGENERATION RESEARCH

SHENYANG EDITORIAL DEPT NEURAL REGENERATION RES

Año: 2019 vol. 14 p. 762 - 766

1673-5374

Neurons are largely polarized cells that have a unique single long process called axon and multiple minor processes, with different shape, functions and composition. Polarity occurs early in neuronal development and is maintained by complex subcellular mechanisms throughout cell life. A defined and controlled temporal sequence of cellular and molecular events strictly regulates the formation of the axon and dendrites from a non-polarized cell. This event is critical for an adequate neuronal wiring and therefore for the normal functioning of the nervous system. The neuronal polarity is very sensitive to the harmful effect of the different factors present in the environment. Rotenone is a crystalline, colorless and odorless isoflavone used as insecticide, piscicide and broad spectrum pesticide. In the present review we will summarize the toxicity mechanism caused by this pesticide in different neuronal cell types and we expand on a particular biological mechanism whereby rotenone could cause an inhibition of neuronal polarity in cultured hippocampal neurons. Recent advances suggest that the inhibition of axonogenesis produced by rotenone could be related with its effect on microtubule dynamics, the actin cytoskeleton and the activity of its regulatory pathways, particularly that of the small RhoGTPase, RhoA. We consider that learning about the mechanism by which rotenone produces neurotoxicity will allow us to advance in the knowledge of the cellular mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative diseases influenced by this environmental pollutant, and eventually the design of new therapeutic strategies.