Research project Reporting practices of developmental neurotoxicity data in EU pesticide regulation

Exposure of the brain to various chemicals in early life can result in higher prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Brain damage caused by developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) is permanent. Pesticide approval relies strongly on animal studies commissioned by the producer. The complex design, data structure and variability renders DNT studies particularly vulnerable to biased reporting. We have previously identified misleading analyses in DNT studies and thereby contributed to a rapid ban of substances in the EU. In this project, we will systematically investigate the reporting of results in 53 DNT studies. This work is enabled by recent transparency regulations in the EU. Prevention through identification of DNT hazards will contribute to achieving the EU’s goals of reducing chemical health risks including those from pesticides.