Neurotoxicity of solvents: Prof. Christoph van Thriel’s new reference book offers a comprehensive overview

Organic solvents are ubiquitous: they are used in paints, cosmetics, commercial cleaning products and pharmaceuticals and are almost indispensable in industry, trades, and households. Due to their chemical properties – especially their ability to dissolve other substances – solvents offer numerous advantages. However, their widespread use also poses health risks.

Prof. Dr. Christoph van Thriel, head of the Research Group for Neurotoxicology and Chemosensation at the Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors in Dortmund, provides a comprehensive overview in his recently published book Neurotoxicity of Solvents. The volume from the series Advances in Neurotoxicology summarizes current scientific knowledge on the neurotoxic effects of organic solvents - both on the central nervous system and the olfactory system.

“Organic solvents can cause lasting damage to the nervous system. They are suspected of contributing to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and impairing cognitive performance - especially memory and concentration,” explains van Thriel. “Studies show that substances like trichloroethylene (TCE) can increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The olfactory system is also affected, as many of these compounds are volatile and evaporate at room temperature.”

In addition, there is a growing environmental burden - for example, due to the increasing use of ethanol in fuels. The authors of the book emphasize the urgent need to further advance research in the field of solvent neurotoxicity. Organic solvents can also present significant health risks in the workplace. The goal is to identify potential hazards at an early stage, assess them scientifically, and incorporate them into regulatory frameworks - to protect both human health and the environment.