Epitranscriptomic links to manganese-induced brain changes
Official title: Novel Epitranscriptomic Mechanisms in Metal Neurotoxicity
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11467973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study at the University of Georgia explores how manganese exposure changes brain cells at the molecular level, especially how a specific RNA reader protein responds and may contribute to movement-related brain problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2027 |
| Award (this year) | $444,880 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES036241-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11467973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with or at risk for manganese exposure or related neurotoxicity may benefit from future therapies informed by this research.
✕Less likely to help
The study is primarily basic science; direct benefits to patients may require further translational work.
What this research studies
This project focuses on how chronic manganese exposure affects the basal ganglia, with a look at astrocytes and their communication with neurons and microglia. It will examine how RNA modifications (m6A) and the YTHDF2 reader protein change in response to manganese and influence inflammatory processes. The researchers plan to uncover the molecular switches that shift astrocytes from a normal state to a pro-inflammatory state, potentially linking these changes to parkinsonism-like symptoms. The work combines cellular models and molecular methods to map how these epitranscriptomic changes drive neurotoxicity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could identify new targets to prevent or reduce manganese-related brain injury and movement disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Emerging evidence links RNA modifications to neurodegeneration, but the specific Mn-induced epitranscriptomic mechanisms are still being established.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
BRD4 and NIPBL work together to control facial bone development
A study in mice and cell models will explore how BRD4 and NIPBL work together to control how genes are turned on in facial development, which could clarify causes of craniofacial disorders.
-
Sulfated glycosaminoglycan hydrogels to protect brain volume after traumatic injury
A new implantable gel made from specially sulfated sugars may help prevent brain shrinkage and improve function after a serious brain injury.
-
Understanding how Kaposi’s sarcoma virus switches on late genes during infection
Scientists are studying how the virus causing Kaposi’s sarcoma turns on late genes when its DNA copies itself, which could reveal new ways to treat cancer in people with AIDS.
-
Understanding how cells control signals and adhesion with the secretory pathway
A funded NIH project looks at how the cell’s secretory system shapes signals, receptors, and attachment to the outside of the cell, which can influence many human diseases.
-
AI-powered math and machine learning for bioscience and drug discovery
A broad NIH grant supports using advanced math and AI to better predict viral variants and aid drug discovery, with the goal of helping patients by accelerating pandemic response.
-
AI-driven platform to predict vaccine-escape variants and design mutation-proof antibodies
An AI-powered approach aims to anticipate SARS-CoV-2 variants that may dodge vaccines and to create antibodies that stay effective.
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.