Chlorpyrifos

Scientists at UCLA linked long-term exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos with more than double the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Laboratory studies revealed the chemical damages dopamine neurons and disrupts the brain’s removal of toxic protein buildup.

Scientists have discovered that prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos, a common insecticide used in agriculture and previously indoors, is linked to brain abnormalities and reduced motor skills in children. Research conducted on New York City children shows the pesticide may cause lasting developmental damage to the brain before birth.