Methylene Chloride Exposure Alters Morphological Development in Zebrafish Larvae

Abstract

The prevalence of individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has strikingly increased in recent decades. Both genetic and environmental factors have been associated with neurodevelopmental changes causing ASD-like symptoms. Methylene chloride is a volatile organic compound which humans are exposed to through inhalation, and there is an association between environmental exposure and ASD prevalence in humans. The influence of methylene chlorides on developmental neurobiology has not been reported. Zebrafish (Danio Rerio) are an ideal model when observing phenotypic neurological changes in a developmental context. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of methylene chloride exposure on early development in zebrafish embryos.