Journal of Biology and Nature

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is the most widely used flame retardant, accounting for approximately 60% of the brominated flame retardant (BFR) market, owing to its flame resistance, thermal stability, and hydrolysis resistance. It may function as an endocrine disruptor, leading to adverse impacts such as embryonic complications, neurotoxicity, reproductive damage, and hepatotoxicity. Tetrabromobisphenol A bis (2-hydroxyethyl) ether (TBBPA-DHEE) remains one of the crucial derivatives and is increasingly used as a safer management option in electronics, thermoplastic polyesters, and circuit board coatings; however, research shows that it may pose toxic risks comparable to, or even greater than, those of its parent compound, although its neurotoxic effects are not yet fully understood. Thus, the current study evaluates the dose-dependent exposure and neurotoxic effect of TBBPA-DHEE. Further, behavioural analysis was performed, including the open field test (OFT), novel tank test (NTT), swimming behaviour test, and dark-light test (DLT), and results displayed that increased anxiety-like behaviour, impaired memory, and decreased locomotor activity could be observed in zebrafish exposed to medium and high concentrations of TBBPA-DHEE. In contrast, low concentration didn’t display noticeable changes. Moreover, the study's findings show a significant dose-dependent increase in neurobehavioural dysfunction. Such a study provides deeper insights into TBBPA-DHEE-induced significant neurobehavioural dysfunctions in zebrafish in a dose-dependent manner. It thus raises substantial concerns about the potential implications for human health.