Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 14, 2026

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats
07:36

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats

Published on: November 20, 2015

Prenatal exposures associated with neurodevelopmental delay and disabilities

Orna Diav-Citrin1

  • 1The Israeli Teratology Information Service, Department of Child Development & Rehabilitation, Medical Administration, The Health Division, Israel Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 1176, Jerusalem, 91010, Israel. orna.diav-citrin@moh.health.gov.il

Developmental Disabilities Research Reviews
|January 31, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal exposure to various agents can harm central nervous system development, leading to neurobehavioral issues. This review examines infectious agents, drugs, alcohol, chemicals, and radiation effects on human neurodevelopment.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Neurobehavioral teratology investigates abnormal central nervous system development due to prenatal exposures.
  • Prenatal development is sensitive to exogenous agents, impacting structural and functional outcomes.
  • Understanding these impacts is crucial for public health and preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the effects of diverse prenatal exposures on human neurodevelopment.
  • To consolidate current knowledge on neurobehavioral teratogens and their impact.
  • To discuss potential mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental abnormalities.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on prenatal exposures and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Analysis of data concerning infectious agents, teratogenic drugs, alcohol, and substances of abuse.
  • Examination of environmental chemical and radiation exposure effects on the developing nervous system.

Main Results:

  • Infectious agents (rubella, CMV, toxoplasma) can cause significant neurodevelopmental deficits.
  • Teratogenic drugs (antiepileptics, retinoids) and alcohol are linked to structural and functional brain abnormalities.
  • Environmental toxins (lead, methylmercury) and radiation pose risks to fetal neurodevelopment.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal exposure to a wide range of agents can lead to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes.
  • Identifying and mitigating exposure risks is essential for protecting fetal neurodevelopment.
  • Further research into mechanisms can inform targeted interventions and prevention.

More Related Videos

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale19:15

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Published on: August 25, 2014

Related Concept Videos

Teratogenicity01:07

Teratogenicity

The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
Intellectual Disability01:29

Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period. This condition encompasses challenges in reasoning, memory, problem-solving, and learning, accompanied by impairments in everyday life skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions. Intellectual disability affects approximately 1% of the population in the United States, impacting an estimated 5...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Disorders of the Nervous Tissue01:28

Disorders of the Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is a vital component of the human body's communication system, enabling us to perceive and respond to stimuli. However, like all other tissues, it is vulnerable to disorders and diseases that can significantly impact our neurological functioning.
Homeostatic Imbalances:
Alzheimer's disease manifests as a gradual decline in memory and cognitive abilities, attributed to the buildup of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.
Parkinson's disease arises from the...
Environmental Influences on Intelligence01:29

Environmental Influences on Intelligence

Despite the strong genetic influence on traits like intelligence, environmental factors significantly shape outcomes. For example, while over 90% of height variation is due to genetic differences, environmental factors such as nutrition also have a notable impact. Similarly, for intelligence, changes in a child's surroundings can significantly alter their IQ. Research shows that enriched environments boost children's academic success and help them develop key cognitive skills. Children from...