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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 30, 2026

A Neurite Outgrowth Assay and Neurotoxicity Assessment with Human Neural Progenitor Cell-Derived Neurons

A Neurite Outgrowth Assay and Neurotoxicity Assessment with Human Neural Progenitor Cell-Derived Neurons

Published on: August 6, 2020

Brain development: anatomy, connectivity, adaptive plasticity, and toxicity.

¹Department of Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. madhu.kalia@jefferson.edu

Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental

|September 23, 2008

Summary

The developing brain is uniquely vulnerable to injury, with lasting consequences from developmental disruptions. Understanding genetic and environmental factors is crucial for addressing neurodevelopmental disorders.

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Last Updated: Jun 30, 2026

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Rapid Detection of Neurodevelopmental Phenotypes in Human Neural Precursor Cells (NPCs)

Rapid Detection of Neurodevelopmental Phenotypes in Human Neural Precursor Cells (NPCs)

Published on: March 2, 2018

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Developmental Biology
Toxicology

Background:

The developing brain's complexity creates unique windows of susceptibility to injury.
Environmental toxins and genetic factors significantly impact neurodevelopment.
Prevalence of idiopathic neurodevelopmental disorders is increasing.

Purpose of the Study:

To review brain developmental anatomy, connectivity, and plasticity.
To examine the impact of toxicity on the developing brain.
To discuss current knowledge and future trends in neurodevelopmental research.

Main Methods:

Literature review of genetic studies.
Analysis of environmental chemical impacts on neurodevelopment.
Examination of adaptive plasticity in the developing brain.

Main Results:

Genetic and environmental factors interact to cause neurodevelopmental disorders.
Industrial chemicals like lead and mercury are known neurotoxins.
Regeneration potential is limited in a disrupted developing brain.

Conclusions:

Neurodevelopmental disorders result from complex interactions between genes and environment.
Further research is needed to understand and prevent these disorders.
Addressing environmental toxicant exposure is critical for brain development.