Behavioral teratology as the study of early brain damage: considerations for the assessment of neonates

Research in early traumatic brain damage indicates that, because of recovery-of-function, the behavioral effects of teratogenic agents and experiences may be easier to detect in younger animals. This makes early assessment desirable in behavioral teratogenicity screens, but requires careful consideration of the unique capabilities of the neonate and the assessment of behaviors more sophisticated than relatively gross motor behaviors. Several behaviors are discussed as examples of tests appropriate to the early assessment of CNS integrity. These tests may prove valuable as powerful, cost-effective discriminators of teratogenicity.