Effects of Urban Noise Pollution on the Brain
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.2739Keywords:
Urban noise pollution, Environmental stressorsAbstract
Urban noise pollution is characterized by the sounds of sirens, cars, trains, and other traffic. It can be a nuisance to the average person during their commute. Noise pollution is a prevalent environmental issue that contributes to the suffering of millions of people globally (United Nations Environment Programme, 2020; Soundproof Cow, 2017). Several diseases and negative mental states have been linked to excessive noise, such as cardiovascular disease and increased annoyance (Münzel et al., 2018; Jafari et al., 2019). However, while the physical effects of noise have been investigated thoroughly, the biochemical effects are yet to be studied.
The first specific aim of this study is to analyze the chemical changes in the brain in response to varying amplitudes of noise. It is known that noise increases variability in neurotransmitter release (Faisal et al., 2008). Additionally, response to noise results in an increase in the stress hormone cortisol (Spreng, 2000).
The second specific aim of this study is to determine what chronic noise exposure does to oxidative stress in the brain. Specifically, it aims to determine whether levels of oxidative stress vary as the time of exposure increases, or remains the same during the whole period, including during levels after exposure has concluded.
The third specific aim of this study is to analyze what happens to the rate of hippocampal neurogenesis during exposure to chronic noise. It has been established that noise exposure negatively affects visual and auditory attention span (Jafari et al., 2019). This study will analyze the amount of mature and proliferating neurons in the hippocampus to identify specific patterns.
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