Exposure to toxic chemicals—in the workplace and at home—is increasing every day. Human behavior can be affected by such exposure and can give important clues that a person or population is in danger. If we can understand the mechanisms of these changes, we can develop better ways of testing for toxic chemical exposure and, most important, better prevention programs.


This volume explores the emerging field of neurobehavioral toxicology and the potential of behavior studies as a noninvasive and economical means for risk assessment and monitoring. Pioneers in this field explore its promise for detecting environmental toxins, protecting us from exposure, and treating those who are exposed.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Introduction
Are Neurotoxins Driving Us Crazy? Planetary Observations on the Causes of Neurodegenerative Diseases of Old Age
Part I. Assessment of Neurobehavioral Tests Now in Use
Methods in Behavioral Toxicology: Current Test Batteries and Need for Development
The Current Status of Test Development in Neurobehavioral Toxicology
Human Neurobehavioral Toxicology Testing
Neurobehavioral Tests: Problems, Potential, and Prospects
Part II. Assessment of Animal Models: What Has Worked and What Is Needed
Exposure to Neurotoxins Throughout the Life Span: Animal Models for Linking Neurochemical Effects to Behavioral Consequences
Animal Models of Dementia: Their Relevance to Neurobehavioral Toxicology Testing
Bridging Experimental Animal and Human Behavioral Toxicology Studies
Methods and Issues in Evaluating the Neurotoxic Effects of Organic Solvents
Animal Models: What Has Worked and What Is Needed
Part III. Chemical Time Bombs: Environmental Causes of Neurodegenerative Diseases
On the Identification and Measurement of Chemical Time Bombs: A Behavior Development Perspective
Neurobehavioral Time Bombs: Their Nature and Their Mechanisms
Neurobehavioral Toxicity of Selected Environmental Chemicals: Clinical and Subclinical Aspects
The Health Effects of Environmental Lead Exosure: Closing Pandora's Box
Chemical Time Bombs: Environmental Causes of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Part IV. Behavioral Aspects of Neurotoxicity: Regional Issues
Neurobehavioral Toxicity Testing in China
Regional Issues in the Development of the Neurobehavioral Core Test Battery
Issues in the Development of Neurobehavioral Toxicity Tests in India
Regional Issues in Neurobehavioral Testing: An Overview
Part V. Recommendations for Further Research and Testing
Environmental Modulation of Neurobehavioral Toxicity
Computerized Performance Testing in Neurotoxicology: Why, What, How, and Whereto?
The Scope and Promise of Behavioral Toxicology
Appendix: Symposium Agenda
Index