How drinking water metal exposures affect heart and metabolic health

Causal Molecular Mechanisms Linking Drinking Water Metal Exposures to Cardiometabolic Disease

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10877761

This study is looking at how long-term exposure to metals like arsenic and uranium in drinking water affects heart and metabolic health, especially in Native American communities, using special mouse models to explore how diet might play a role in these health problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877761 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the harmful effects of chronic exposure to metals like arsenic and uranium found in drinking water on cardiovascular and metabolic health, particularly in Native American populations. By using genetically engineered mouse models, the study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind these health issues and how dietary factors may influence the effects of metal exposure. The research will analyze both early-life and lifelong exposure to these contaminants to determine their impact on heart disease and diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly Native Americans, who are exposed to high levels of arsenic and uranium in their drinking water.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have exposure to these specific metals in their drinking water may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating cardiovascular and metabolic diseases linked to drinking water contaminants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant links between metal exposure and health outcomes, but this study aims to explore novel molecular mechanisms that have not been extensively tested.

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.