How an environmental pollutant affects immune responses across generations
Epigenetic mechanisms in Transgenerational Effects of an Environmental Pollutant
This study is looking at how a harmful chemical called TCDD affects the immune system, especially how it changes T cells, and it aims to find out if these changes can be passed down to future generations, which could help us understand how environmental factors impact our health and disease risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10658858 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of the environmental pollutant Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on immune system responses, particularly focusing on how it influences T cell differentiation and function. The study aims to understand the epigenetic mechanisms that may lead to transgenerational effects, meaning how exposure to TCDD can affect not just the individual exposed but also their descendants. By examining the role of TCDD in modulating immune responses to bacterial infections, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how environmental factors influence immune health and disease susceptibility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of exposure to environmental pollutants and those at risk for bacterial infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have no history of exposure to environmental pollutants or who do not have immune system-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating bacterial infections influenced by environmental exposures.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental factors can significantly impact immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nagarkatti, Mitzi — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Nagarkatti, Mitzi
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.