How cadmium exposure affects behavior across generations
Official title: Sensory Mechanisms of Cadmium-Induced Behavioral Disorders Across Generations
Funded at University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-11162637 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to cadmium, a harmful metal, can affect behavior, thinking skills, and vision in zebrafish, and whether these effects can be passed down to their offspring, so we can better understand the risks for future generations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $32,657 |
| NIH project number | 3R00ES030398-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11162637 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of exposure to cadmium or those concerned about the effects of environmental toxins on health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have no history of cadmium exposure or related behavioral disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cadmium exposure on behavioral disorders, cognitive challenges, and vision deficiencies, particularly focusing on how these effects can persist across generations. Using zebrafish as a model, the study will expose them to dietary levels of cadmium and assess the resulting behavioral and neurophysiological changes. The research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these adverse effects, linking them to genetic and physiological outcomes. This approach combines advanced technologies and training in developmental molecular toxicology and neuroscience.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how environmental toxins like cadmium affect behavior and health, potentially informing public health policies and prevention strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that environmental toxins can lead to behavioral disorders, suggesting that this study's approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami Coral Gables
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shelton, Delia S — University of Miami Coral Gables
- Study coordinator: Shelton, Delia S
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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.