About one in six children in the United States are affected with developmental disabilities such as lower IQ, learning deficits, and behavioral effects. Emerging evidence suggests an association between early life exposure to a range of environmental contaminants, non-chemicals stressors, and neurodevelopmental effects throughout life. Since environmental contaminants and non-chemicals stressors can affect children differently than adults, this research will help EPA and others better understand child-specific vulnerabilities and potential neurodevelopment brain disorders.

Evaluating effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on neurological development

Endocrine disrupting chemicals can affect multiple systems in the body, including the brain and nervous system. To learn more, visit EPA’s Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program. EPA scientists are researching how chemicals affect thyroid hormones that help control the development and maturation of the nervous system.

• Research on Effects on Neurological Development by Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals

Using models to predict how chemicals impact development 

Virtual tissue models are advanced computer models and in vitro systems ("organs-on-a-chip") capable of simulating aspects of human development. These virtual tissue models are used by EPA to research how chemicals may impact thyroid function and subsequent adverse impacts on brain development.

• Virtual Tissue Models