Effects of fathers' arsenic exposure on their offspring's health
Inter- and transgenerational effects of paternal arsenic exposure
This study looks at how exposure to arsenic in fathers might affect the health of their children and grandchildren, using mice to see how these changes can impact things like sugar and fat in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10989914 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to inorganic arsenic in fathers can affect the health of their children and grandchildren. By using animal models, specifically male mice, the study examines the epigenetic changes that occur due to arsenic exposure and how these changes influence metabolic functions in subsequent generations. The researchers focus on the impact of paternal exposure on glucose metabolism and fat storage, aiming to understand the mechanisms behind these inherited effects. This could provide insights into how environmental toxins can have long-lasting health implications across generations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with a family history of metabolic disorders or those who have been exposed to environmental toxins.
Not a fit: Patients who have no known exposure to arsenic or similar environmental toxins may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how environmental exposures affect not just individuals but also their descendants, potentially informing public health policies and preventive measures.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that environmental exposures can have transgenerational effects, but the specific focus on paternal arsenic exposure and its metabolic implications is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Zheng — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Sun, Zheng
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 below.