What we do
About our project
Motivation and aim
All of us are nowadays using plastic products frequently during the day. But did you ever wonder if using these plastic products could be harmful to your health. We think bisophenols and phthalates, chemicals frequently found in these plastic products, could be affecting the development of our brain.
Explanation of Bispenols and Phthalates
Bisphenols and phthalates are found in plastic products, such as reusable plastic water bottles, plastic packaging of food and care products, but also for example PVC flooring. In addition, phthalates are used as scent retainers and are therefore found in perfumes and care products. They are also called endocrine disruptors, meaning that they have the ability to disrupt our hormone system. The most widely accepted hypothesis is that they exert their effects by binding to estrogen receptors and blocking testosterone.
Particpants
Within this study we use data from The Generation R study. This is a large population based prospective cohort study designed to identify environmental and genetic causes leading to normal and abnormal development. During the inclusion period pregnant women living in Rotterdam were invited to take part in the study. We have been following these women and their children prospectively during multiple rounds of visits to the research center, as well as with questionnaires.
Our research focus
Life-course approach
In this project we take a life course approach with exposure and outcome measurements during different time periods. For example, we assess exposure during the prenatal period, early childhood, preadolescence and peri-adolescence. Additionally, we assess behavior at five different time points and brain structure (by MRI) is assessed at two different time points. Moreover we hope to identify a sensitive period for the effects of bisphenols and phthalates on the brain and behavior.
Behavior and brain structure
We use a number of different outcome measures to investigate the effects of bisphenols and phthalates on the brain. For example we investigate behavior by studying emotional and behavioral problems, executive functioning and risk-taking behavior. We also assess the brain in a structural way by using brain MRI to asses cortical measurements as well as white matter measurements.
Funds & Grants
This research project is funded by the National institute of Health NIH.
Collaborations
This research project is a collaboration between Generation R and the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry department.
This research project is a collaboration with New York Grossman School of Medicine: About NYU Grossman School of Medicine | NYU Langone Health
Our team
Akhgar Ghassabian, MD, PHD, Copromotor
