A former Marine, a deceased U.S. Senator, and a retired NBA player are among individuals whose Parkinson’s disease diagnoses may be linked to exposure to the industrial solvent trichloroethylene (TCE), according to a growing body of research.
The connection between TCE and Parkinson’s disease has been investigated for over half a century, with recent studies suggesting the chemical may play a significant role in the development of the neurodegenerative disorder. A study published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, and conducted by researchers from institutions including the University of Rochester Medical Center and the University of California-San Francisco, points to TCE as a potential causative agent. The research details the widespread presence of the chemical, evidence linking it to the disease, and the cases of seven individuals exposed to TCE who subsequently developed Parkinson’s.
TCE, a solvent historically used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications – including degreasing metal parts, removing paint, and as an anesthetic – has been found to enter the brain and body tissues, damaging mitochondria, the energy-producing components of cells, in animal studies. These studies have demonstrated that TCE exposure can lead to the selective loss of dopamine-producing neurons, a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease in humans, according to the research.
The potential for widespread exposure is a key concern. Researchers warn that millions may be unknowingly exposed through contaminated air, groundwater, and indoor air. TCE can contaminate soil, creating underground plumes that can travel long distances and affect drinking water supplies. One such plume, associated with an aerospace company on Long Island, New York, spans over six kilometers in length and three kilometers in width, impacting the water sources for thousands of residents.
Among the cases highlighted in the study is Brian Grant, a 12-year NBA veteran diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 36. Grant’s potential exposure to TCE dates back to his childhood, when his father was stationed at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina. Camp Lejeune has been the subject of scrutiny due to widespread water contamination, including TCE, affecting service members and their families.
The Mayo Clinic defines Parkinson’s disease as a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system, impacting movement. Symptoms include tremors, rigidity, slow movement, and postural instability. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the disease affects approximately 0.6% of adults over the age of 45 in the United States, with prevalence increasing with age. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s remains unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute to its development.
The researchers caution that while the evidence linking TCE to Parkinson’s is growing, further investigation is needed to fully understand the extent of the chemical’s impact. The study authors emphasize the need for continued monitoring of TCE contamination and the development of strategies to mitigate exposure.
