Nutritional Modulation of the Gut Microbiome in Relation to Prenatal Lead-Induced Neurotoxicity: A Review

Prenatal exposure to lead (Pb) is a well-established risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Despite its recognized risks, prenatal Pb exposure remains largely unregulated and poorly addressed in public health policy. Evidence suggests that the gut microbiome may mediate the neurotoxic effects of metals, offering a potential target for intervention. Here we discuss how nutritional factors, particularly those influencing the gut microbiome, may reduce the neurotoxicity of prenatal Pb exposure.