Arsenic exposure affects the formation of motor neurons
Official title: Motor neuron formation is inhibited by arsenic
Funded at Clemson University · NIH-11030322 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how arsenic, a harmful substance found in the environment, affects the growth of nerve cells that help our muscles move, using special lab-grown cells to see how it impacts their development and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project start | February 7, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,737 |
| NIH project number | 5R03ES036027-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030322 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to arsenic through drinking water or food, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to motor neuron dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not exposed to arsenic or do not have any motor neuron-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to arsenic, a common environmental toxin, impacts the development of motor neurons, which are crucial for muscle movement. Using human induced pluripotent stem cells, the study will examine how arsenic affects the differentiation of these cells into motor neurons and their ability to produce acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for muscle contraction. The research aims to identify the mechanisms by which arsenic disrupts motor neuron formation and function, potentially leading to better understanding of related health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for mitigating the harmful effects of arsenic exposure on motor neuron health and function.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on arsenic's effects on the nervous system, this specific approach using human iPS cells to investigate motor neuron formation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Clemson University
Clemson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bain, Lisa J — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Bain, Lisa J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.