Investigators and Program Directors
Richard F. Seegal
Research Scientist, Wadsworth Center, Molecular Toxicology
Professor, School of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences and Environmental Health Sciences
Ph.D., Physiological Psychology, University of Georgia
(1972)
Post Doctoral Training: University of Connecticut, BioBehavioral
Sciences (1972-1974)
E-mail: seegal@wadsworth.org
Research Interests
We use in vitro, in vivo and epidemiological approaches to better understand the neurochemical, neuromorphological and neuropathological consequences by which exposure to environmental contaminants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants, pesticides and methylmercury, alter central nervous system function. Major interests include study of the roles and mechanisms by which these contaminants influence neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders including, respectively, pervasive developmental disorders (Attention Deficit Disorders, autism) and Parkinson’s disease. Because both disorders are sexually dimorphic, with higher prevalence in boys and men, we are also intensively investigating the roles that gonadal hormones play in modifying the neurotoxic responses to these environmental toxicants. Thus, our laboratory is wedded to using a variety of techniques, both laboratory-based and epidemiologically-based to better understand the etiology of diseases of the nervous system in both the young and not-so-young.
Contact Information
E-mail: seegal@wadsworth.org