Molecular Mechanisms

Elaine Faustman, Study Director
Lucio Costa
Terry Kavanagh

The overall aim of this study is to evaluate the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which specific pesticides cause neurodevelopmental toxicity, and to define the "windows of susceptibility" for these neurotoxicants.

You can download a poster to read more detailed information about this research.
Photo Close-up of red delicious apples in Yakima Valley, WA—Doug Wilson, USDA.

Specific Aims

  • Evaluate the mechanism of action through which pesticides affect neurogenesis versus gliogenesis.
  • Evaluate the contribution of specific cell cycle control checkpoint pathways in defining susceptibility of neurons and glial cells to pesticide induced effects on proliferation.
  • Evaluate the role that specific stress-activated cell signaling pathways (p38 MAPK, SAPK/JNK) play in mediating pesticide induced effects on viability, proliferation, and apoptosis in neuronal and glial cells.
  • Evaluate the role that reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and antioxidant machinery play in defining susceptibility to pesticide-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity.
For more information about the work of the Molecular Mechanisms study, please see our Publications page or contact the study director, Dr. Elaine Faustman.

You can also learn more about the impact of our work by downloading a copy of our report "Research into Action."
Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences

School of Public Health & Community Medicine

University of Washington

© 2006 Center for Child Environmental Health Risks Research