BPA Chemical Exposure Linked to Neurodevelopmental Issues in new Study

A groundbreaking study published in Environmental Health perspectives on May 13, 2025, reveals a concerning link between exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) and neurodevelopmental disorders. Researchers at Ritsumeikan University and Kyoto University in Japan discovered that BPA, when combined with retinoic acid (RA), can trigger abnormal brain and facial development. This finding raises concerns about the potential impact of everyday chemical exposure on fetal and infant health.

BPA and Retinoic Acid: A Perilous Combination

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical widely used in the manufacturing of plastics and resins since the 1950s [[1]]. It’s found in numerous consumer products, including food containers, water bottles, and even the lining of metal cans. Retinoic acid (RA), a derivative of vitamin A, is crucial for organ development. While RA is naturally present in the body, it can also be found in low levels in water sources.

The study, led by Professor Tatsuyuki Takada, investigated the combined effects of BPA and RA on early neurodevelopment. The researchers exposed human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and zebrafish embryos to BPA and RA, both individually and in combination. The results were alarming.

Did You Know? The global plastics market is projected to reach $789.7 billion by 2031, highlighting the continued widespread use of chemicals like BPA ^[1].

Key Findings: Brain Abnormalities and Gene Overstimulation

The research team found that the combination of BPA and RA led to important abnormalities in brain and facial development. Specifically, the combination overstimulated RA-responsive genes, particularly a group known as HOX genes, which play a critical role in body patterning during development.

“When cells were exposed to BPA and RA together, it was observed that BPA potentiated the RA signaling pathway more than the normal condition (RA alone), leading to abnormalities in body patterning of critical organs during development.” – professor Tatsuyuki Takada, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University

These abnormalities included a rostral shift in brain region markers, duplication of key neurons (Mauthner cells), and craniofacial malformations in zebrafish embryos. The researchers suggest that these outcomes could be linked to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Implications for Public Health

This study highlights a previously unkown mechanism by which BPA can interfere with development. While BPA alone had no significant effect, its combination with RA caused a dramatic shift in gene expression and brain structure. This is particularly concerning given the widespread presence of both BPA and RA-like substances in the environment.

The researchers hope their findings will inspire stricter environmental health policies and further examination into chemical-nutrient interactions. They emphasize the potential risk posed by simultaneous exposure to BPA and RA for the safety of fetuses and pregnant women.

Pro Tip: Choose BPA-free products whenever possible,especially for items that come into contact with food and beverages. Look for recycling codes #1, #2, #4, #5, and #6 as these are generally BPA-free. Avoid #3 and #7, which may contain BPA or othre concerning chemicals.

Comparing BPA Alternatives

The study underscores the importance of understanding how common chemicals interact with essential nutrients and their combined impact on human health. As Professor Takada concludes, “Our study reveals a causal link between chemical exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, shedding light on the mechanisms of endocrine disruption.”

What steps do you take to minimize your exposure to BPA? How can we better protect vulnerable populations from these chemical exposures?