Effect of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Flame Retardant Exposure on Osteogenesis

Associate Professor Vincent Markowski

Department: Psychology

Funding Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)

Period of Funding: September 27, 2010 - August 31, 2013

Award Total: $59,915

Description:
The polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) are added to many industrial and household products to retard the ignition and spread of fire. Unfortunately, these compounds are not permanently bound to products. With age and wear the PBDEs have been shown to enter the environment where they have become major contaminants. This grant examines the hypothesis that PBDEs impair osteogenesis (birth of bone cells) and/or osteoblast function by antagonizing thyroid hormone receptor-mediated gene expression. Previous research has shown that PBDEs can reduce levels of thyroid hormones which are critical for early growth of the neuromuscular system.