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Can Computational Models Be Used to Assess the Developmental Toxicity of Environmental Exposures?
Citation:
KNUDSEN, T. B. Can Computational Models Be Used to Assess the Developmental Toxicity of Environmental Exposures? Second Edition, Chapter 18, John Wiley & Sons Incorporated, New York, NY, 1(2):48-50, (2010).
Impact/Purpose:
The models can be exercised across conditions not practical experimentally due to cost, time, scale, or complexity. EPA’s Virtual Embryo will build computational (in silico) models that may make high-throughput screening data useful in a quantitative risk assessment of developmental toxicity [http://www.epa.gov/ncct/v-Embryo/]. So, to return to the original question, “Can computational models be used to assess the developmental toxicity of environmental exposures?” the answer may be not yet but the future is open. Much effort is bring expended today to realize this goal.
Description:
Environmental causes of birth defects include maternal exposure to drugs, chemicals, or physical agents. Environmental factors account for an estimated 3–7% of birth defects although a broader contribution is likely based on the mother’s general health status and genetic blueprint (chapter 6). This chapter will focus on ‘environmental chemicals’ are natural and man-made compounds to which human populations are continually exposed as a matter of individual lifestyle, local geography and community life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) samples the U.S. population every two years to determine which chemicals get into people and at what concentrations [CDC, 2009]. NHANES measured 212 environmental chemicals in blood or urine. The National Children’s Study (NCS) which began its pilot program in 2009 will examine the effects of broad environmental influences on the health and development of 100,000 children across the United States, following these kids from before birth until age 21 [http://www.nationalchildrensstudy.gov]. These ‘biomonitoring programs’ will help identify vulnerable populations and guide further assessment of chemical exposure sources.
