Differential impact of heavy metals on neurotoxicity during development and in aging central nervous system

Heavy metals are ubiquitous in nature and their bioaccumulation usually remains undetected until it manifests as a chronic pathological condition. Accumulating evidence suggests that all age groups (independent of socioeconomic status, race, gender, and geographical location) and organs are susceptible to metal induced toxicity, although the impact on the central nervous system is more severe and long-lasting in both developing and adult human brain. There are no clinically proven treatments to those affected by heavy metal toxicity. We here review the most recent studies (2018–2020) on the differential impact of heavy metals on the pathogenesis of various neurodevelopmental disorders in children and neurodegenerative diseases in adults, highlighting the need for urgent intervention to this global health crisis.