How a common pesticide affects learning and memory functions
Official title: The impact of a neonicotinoid pesticide on neural functions underlying learning and memory
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10805469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common pesticide called imidacloprid affects learning and memory in mice, both in adults and those exposed while still in the womb, to help us understand the possible risks of these chemicals on brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $79,300 |
| NIH project number | 5R03ES035189-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10805469 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals exposed to neonicotinoids, particularly those in agricultural settings or with environmental exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not exposed to neonicotinoids or who do not have cognitive impairments related to pesticide exposure may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of neonicotinoid pesticides, specifically imidacloprid, on learning and memory by examining how exposure impacts brain functions in both adult and gestationally exposed mice. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these pesticides alter cognitive abilities, focusing on the role of specific receptors in the brain that are involved in memory processes. By using controlled doses of the pesticide, researchers will assess changes in behavior related to spatial and procedural memory tasks, providing insights into the potential risks of pesticide exposure on cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how pesticide exposure affects cognitive functions, potentially influencing public health policies and safety regulations.
How similar studies have gone: While there is growing evidence of the negative effects of neonicotinoids on various physiological processes, this specific investigation into their impact on learning and memory is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mahoney, Megan M — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Mahoney, Megan M
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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.