Genetic and Environmental Influences on the Pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease: Young Adult Brain and Behavioral Risk Indicators
Abstract
This study addresses questions about the causes and progression of Parkinson's disease (PD) over the life course, specifically with respect to the role of a toxic chemical exposure, chlorpyrifos (CPF), an organophosphate pesticide. To understand how early exposure to CPF affects the nervous system, genetic susceptibility to CPF, and the long term consequences of exposure, we are studying 200 young adults in an urban community cohort, now reaching 19-20 years of age, many of whom were routinely exposed to residential pesticides, as measured by a biomarker of CPF in cord blood. We are conducting neurological assessments of stiffness and gait, cardiac measures, sleep questions, measures of tremor, olfactory status, and other neuropsychological measures. We have access to previously-collected genetic information. The assessment requires 45-50 minutes; participants are paid $100 and cost of transportation. The purpose is to identify the earliest signs of risk for later PD that may appear long before clinical and motor symptoms can be seen, and to determine who is at greatest risk. We hypothesize that the individuals who were most highly exposed to CPF during the prenatal period (based on cord blood sample) will be more likely to show pre-motor and pre-clinical symptoms on these tests, as compared to individuals with lower exposure, and that some individuals may be more susceptible to exposure based on their genetic characteristics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1190902
Entities
People
- Virginia Rauh
Organizations
- Columbia University