How arsenic exposure affects pneumonia and immune responses in children

Developmental Exposures to Arsenic: Pneumonia, Immunity, and Microbiomes (DEAPIM)

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11012813

This study looks at how being exposed to arsenic can affect children's immune systems and make them more likely to get pneumonia, helping us understand how it might change their gut health and vaccine responses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012813 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of arsenic exposure on children's immune systems and their susceptibility to pneumonia. It focuses on how early life exposure to arsenic may impair immune function and alter the gut microbiome, potentially reducing the effectiveness of vaccines against pneumonia-causing bacteria. By analyzing immune responses and microbiome profiles in children exposed to arsenic, the study aims to uncover the connections between environmental toxins, immunity, and respiratory health. The research employs advanced sequencing techniques to assess changes in immune cell function and microbiome composition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been exposed to arsenic through drinking water, air, or food.

Not a fit: Patients who are not children or those who have not been exposed to arsenic may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine strategies and health interventions for children exposed to arsenic, ultimately reducing pneumonia rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that environmental exposures can significantly impact immune responses and vaccine efficacy, suggesting that this study's approach is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.