Scientific publications
2025Journal articleEnglishOpen access
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Scientific publications
Wilfred A. Abia* (Corresponding author)
Laure Viviane Ndam Ngoungoure
Brice Vincent Ayissi Owona
Yacouba Foupouapouognigni
Ferdinand Kouoh Elombo
Herman Philipe Njitoyap Nfombouot
Angéle N. Tchana
Paul F. Moundipa
The Neuroscience Chronicles
Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are increasingly prevalent in children globally, including Cameroon. Emerging evidence suggests that early-life exposure to environmental neurotoxins, particularly mycotoxins, may disrupt brain development and contribute to these disorders. Objective: This review aimed to assess the potential impact of dietary exposure to neurotoxic mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1, fumonisin B1, and ochratoxin A, on brain development and the risk of NDDs in children in Cameroon. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed studies, national reports, and biomonitoring data from 1993 to 2024 was conducted. Literature on food contamination, mycotoxin toxicology, exposure levels, and neurodevelopmental outcomes in both humans and animal models was synthesized. Results and Discussion: Children in Cameroon are exposed to mycotoxins through contaminated staple foods such as maize and groundnuts, with exposures often exceeding international safety limits. These toxins can cross the blood-brain barrier and placenta, disrupt key neurodevelopmental processes (e.g., neuroplasticity, neurogenesis) through various mechanisms such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and result in behavioral and cognitive impairments. Animal studies show strong links between chronic mycotoxin exposure and NDD-like symptoms. In Cameroon, these risks are intensified by poor food storage, weak regulations, and low dietary diversity. Conclusion: Dietary mycotoxin exposure in children is a serious but underrecognized contributor to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in Cameroon. There is an urgent need for national surveillance, child-specific risk assessments, stronger food safety enforcement, and public health education to mitigate exposure and protect vulnerable populations.