Research
Emphasis Areas

Research Affiliates

Core Services
Behavioral Science Core

Brain Imaging Core

Cellular Morphology Core

Genetics Core

Infant Primate Research Laboratory Core

Instrument Development Laboratory Core

Alan Fantel, Ph.D.

Research Professor of Pediatrics
Research Affiliate, Center on Human Development and Disability
agf@u.washington.edu
206-543-3373
University of Washington, Box 356320
Seattle, WA 98195-6320

Dr. Fantel's research focuses on elucidating the biochemical mechanisms involved in maternal exposure to cocaine and other compounds that can restrict blood flow, and thus oxygen supply, to fetal tissues. Limb reduction anomalies and brain abnormalities may occur if these restrictions are severe enough and last long enough. In rats, he has shown that restriction of blood flow to the uterus causes formation of free radicals that are harmful to fetal tissue proteins.

Studies in Fantel’s lab examine changes in oxygen and nitrogen radical concentrations. Disruption in normal ratios of these radicals appears to initiate vascular constriction, while the consequent restrictions in blood flow cause even greater disruption in free radical concentrations. The latter appear to cause hemorrhage into fetal tissues leading to limb and brain malformations. Current studies focus on the dual roles of nitric oxide which can both cause and prevent fetal hemorrhagic injury.

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