This project is focused on:
- The potential synergistic neurodevelopmental consequences of developmental lead exposure in conjunction with maternal and/or offspring stress
- Determination of whether enhanced toxicity of lead exposure and stress is seen with other neurotoxic metals, including methylmercury and arsenic, that likewise impact the HPA axis and brain mesocorticolimbic systems
- The potential for positive vs negative early behavioral experience to modify the trajectory of consequences of developmental lead and/or prenatal stress exposures