PCBs Alter Dopamine Mediated Function in Aging Workers
Abstract
The major hypothesis is that prior occupational exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) results in decrements in neuropsychological and neurological performance and that these deficits are related to reductions in the number of dopamine (DA) terminals in the basal ganglia. In Albany, NY 248 former capacitor workers (62 per year) will undergo neuropsychological and neurological examinations, complete a comprehensive questionnaire, have blood drawn to measure serum thyroid hormone and PCB concentrations, 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) 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, 129 subjects have undergone testing in Albany and 39 have been imaged in New Haven, CT with an additional nine subjects scheduled for testing. Serum PCB concentrations are being analyzed at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. Secure electronic databases have been created for all data. We anticipate no problems 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, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA433063
Entities
People
- Richard F. Seegal