6PPDQ Exposure Exacerbates Seizure-Induced Neuronal Damage via the TP53/Nrf2 Axis: An Integrated Strategy Combining Network Toxicology and Experimental Validation

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Abstract
As an emerging tire wear-derived environmental contaminant, 6PPD-quinone (6PPDQ) has raised significant concerns regarding its neurotoxic potential, particularly for children exposed to recycled tire crumb rubber in playgrounds. However, the molecular mechanisms by which 6PPDQ influences neurological disorders such as epilepsy remain poorly understood. In this study, we employed an integrative framework combining network toxicology, bulk analysis of human epileptic brain tissues, Mendelian randomization, and molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate these mechanisms. Our findings, validated through CETSA-WB and SPR, identify 6PPDQ as a direct ligand that binds to and stabilizes neuronal TP53. Through a synergistic double-hit mechanism, 6PPDQ directly engages the TP53 pathway while simultaneously triggering microglial interleukin-6 secretion. These converging pathways lead to the suppression of the master antioxidant regulator Nrf2, resulting in glutathione depletion, excessive reactive oxygen species accumulation, and exacerbated neuronal damage under excitotoxic stress. Experimental validation using glutamate-induced HT22 cell models and microglia–neuron crosstalk systems confirmed that targeting the TP53/Nrf2 axis or scavenging ROS significantly attenuates 6PPDQ-induced neurotoxicity. Our findings highlight critical risks to pediatric neurological health posed by tire-derived contaminants and identify the TP53/Nrf2 axis as a promising therapeutic target. Furthermore, this work provides a robust scientific basis for refining risk assessment frameworks and developing regulatory strategies to mitigate environmental exposure to 6PPDQ.
Funding Information
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (82371462)
  • Provincial Subsidy Funds for Pairing Assistance (DHBFZ202505)
  • Jiangsu Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Project (PDJH2024027)
  • Qing Lan Project of Jiangsu (JS2023-27)
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Development Plan Project of Zhejiang Province (2024ZL140)
  • Hangzhou Medical and Health Science and Technology Project (B20252321)
  • Yangzhou Polytechnic College Research Project (2025XJ17)
  • Social Science Research Project on Yangzhou’s Child-Friendly Initiative (2025YFE-057)
  • Yangzhou Basic Research Program (2025YBR-225)

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