IIT Hyderabad research reveals harmful effects of triclosan on human nervous system

NEW DELHI: A study by the researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad has found out that triclosan, an antimicrobial compound commonly present in toothpaste, detergents, toys etc to increase their shelf life, causes damage to the nervous system at very low concentrations. The researchers also said that antioxidants can help to ease the harmful effects of triclosan

A study conducted at biotechnology associate professor Anamika Bhargava’s lab at IIT Hyderabad revealed that triclosan could adversely affect an enzyme that helps in regulating a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is important for human brain cells to communicate with each other. This communication is necessary for the muscles in the human body to work. The IITH research also revealed that antioxidants can be used to protect the enzyme from the harmful effects of triclosan.

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There is a partial ban on the use of Triclosan by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the food and drug regulator body in the United States of America. “..however, Indian counterparts are not very explicit on the inclusion of Triclosan in various consumer products”, said a statement from IIT Hyderabad.

"Several health-related challenges in the 21st century can be handled using technological innovations. IITH has constantly been striving to provide an excellent research ecosystem wherein research groups like Dr Anamika’s can provide sustainable solutions for society at large,” said BS Murty, director of IITH.

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“We reiterate caution in the use of triclosan-based products. Perhaps we should also pay attention to eating more antioxidant-rich foods to protect ourselves from chemicals like Triclosan. However, larger-scale studies especially involving humans, would give a better picture of the toxic effect of Triclosan on humans," Bhargava said.