Project Summary (1995-2000)

This new project on developmental immunotoxicity of lead (Pb) provides an opportunity to examine the immunological impact of low-level Pb exposure in developing rats and chickens. While Pb is a known immunotoxin, the immunological effects of low-level, prenatal Pb exposure have not received comprehensive examination. Moreover, efforts to develop alternative chelation therapies using dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) pose issues for the immune system as well. In addition to the desired two-species examination of Pb and DMSA, this project offers an opportunity to examine the effect of diet (differential protein intake) in altering the risk to the developing fetus from low-level Pb exposure. The results of this portion of the project should enhance risk assessment of the impact of Pb within specific human populations where differential dietary intake occurs. Finally, the effectiveness of Pb chelation on protection of the immune system from toxic insult is being studied. Opportunity to coordinate these efforts with neurobehavioral studies (Project 2) evaluating DMSA are thereby provided.