PCBs Alter Dopamine Mediated Function in Aging Workers
Abstract
The major hypothesis is that prior occupational exposure to polychiorinated biphenyls (PCBs) results in decrements in neuropsychological and neurological performance and reductions in the number of dopamine (DA) terminals in the basal ganglia. In Albany, NY, 248 subjects (62 per year) will undergo neuropsychological and neurological examinations, complete a comprehensive questionnaire, have blood drawn to measure serum PCB concentration and undergo a non-invasive test to determine bone lead concentrations. This latter measure will allow us to control for exposure to lead-a potential confounder. In New Haven, CT, 96 subjects (24 subjects per year, chosen randomly) will be asked to undergo brain imaging at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders to determine if PCBs reduce the number of basal ganglia DA terminals. To date, despite one of the worst winter in recent history, 62 subjects have undergone testing in Albany and 21 subjects have been image in New Haven, CT. Serum PCB concentrations are being analyzed at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. Secure electronic databases have been created for all data. We anticipate no problem in continuing to recruit and test the number of subjects needed for studies in both Albany and New Haven to reach our annual goals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA421990
Entities
People
- Richard F. Seegal