TITLE:
Neurotoxic Effects of Pesticide Mixtures: A Systematic Review of the Experimental Literature
AUTHORS:
Essotolom Badjabaissi, Komlan Mawubédjro Dossou-Yovo, Mindédé Assih, Tchare Assiki, Sabrina Chris Janiba Sanvee, Batomayena Bakoma, Aboudoulatif Diallo
KEYWORDS:
Pesticide Mixtures, Neurotoxicity, Chronic Exposure, Additive Effects, Synergistic Effects
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.12 No.9,
September
16,
2025
ABSTRACT: Studies on the effects of pesticide mixtures on the nervous system have not been reviewed. The aim of this article was to systematically review the literature on neurotoxicity induced by a mixture of pesticides. The review was limited to mammalian, neurobehavioural, neuropathological and neuropharmacological studies; in vitro and in vivo and other biochemical studies were considered. Inclusion criteria were developed a priori to ensure consistent assessment of the studies. Only studies published from January 2000 to December 2022 were included in the study. Limitations included the use of a single dose and/or test time, small sample sizes, limited data presentation and/or obviously toxic doses. Of the 2145 studies selected, only 7 were included, including 6 in vivo studies and 1 in vitro study. The studies differed in terms of species tested, pesticides, dosing scenarios and experimental designs. Two studies had assessed the evidence of an additive or synergistic effect of pesticides in co-exposure, but further long-term analyses should confirm this hypothesis. Other studies had less convincing results due to their exposure protocols. Taken together, despite the differences in quality between the studies, the pesticides studied and the exposure method, these studies require additional tests. Taken together, despite the differences in quality between the studies, the pesticides studied and the exposure method, these studies require additional tests.