Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography to Assess Genetic Susceptibility to Gestational and Lactational Benzo[a]pyrene Exposure

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Northern Kentucky University

Abstract

"Traffic-related air pollution is a complex mixture that includes the neurotoxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon benzo[a]pyrene. We use mice to model human genetic variation in genes related to BaP metabolism to identify those at higher risk from early life exposure. Following behavioral testing of mice exposed to BaP during pregnancy and breast-feeding, we measure neurotransmitter levels in multiple brain regions. We found significant differences in levels of both dopamine and serotonin and their metabolites. The greatest changes were in the hippocampus which has a critical role in learning and memory and the prefrontal cortex which is required for normal cognitive function."

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Air Pollution Experiments, Brain Abnormalities, Benzopyrene

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