Thomas Burbacher, Ph.D. Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Research Affiliate, Center on Human Development and Disability Director, Infant Primate Research Laboratory tmb@u.washington.edu 206-685-7674 University of Washington, Box 357234 Seattle, WA 98195-7234

Dr. Burbacher's research investigates changes in brain development and function caused by prenatal exposure to neuroactive substances. His studies in nonhuman primate models are yielding information on the long-term effects of prenatal exposure to methylmercury, a widespread environmental contaminant, and the effects of prenatal exposure to methanol, which is under consideration as an alternative motor fuel. In-utero exposure to methylmercury has been linked to mental retardation, sensory disturbances such as blindness and deafness, and significant delays in motor development.

Burbacher has been studying the same group of macaque monkeys from birth to 16 years of age to evaluate the immediate and long-term effects of in-utero methylmercury exposure on physical development, cognitive abilities, and sensory functioning. Data from Burbacher's research program are used to help formulate policies aimed at the protection of human populations from levels of exposure to environmental contaminants such as methylmercury and methanol that are associated with adverse health effects and developmental disabilities.

University of Washington • Center on Human Development and Disability Box 357920 • Seattle WA 98195-7920 USA • 206-543-7701 •chdd@u.washington.edu

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