How early childhood lead exposure changes RNA in the brain and affects memory
The Role of m6A-RNA Methylation in Memory Formation and Recall and Its Modulation and Influence on Long-Term Outcomes as a Consequence of Early Life Lead Exposure
This project looks at whether lead exposure early in life changes a chemical tag on brain RNA (called m6A) that can harm memory and behavior, to better understand impacts on children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11321575 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my point of view, researchers are using animal models to see how lead exposure during early development changes m6A RNA methylation in brain areas important for memory like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. They will measure RNA methylation patterns, related gene activity, and memory-related behaviors, while considering dose, timing of exposure, and sex. The team will also test whether altering the m6A system changes memory outcomes, linking molecular changes to long-term cognitive and behavioral effects. The goal is to build a clearer picture of how early lead exposure leads to lasting memory problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most directly relevant are children with a history of early-life lead exposure and their families concerned about long-term memory or behavioral effects.
Not a fit: People without a history of lead exposure or whose cognitive problems are due to unrelated causes are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify molecular targets that lead to new ways to prevent or treat memory and behavioral problems caused by early lead exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have linked lead to DNA and histone changes in the brain, but applying m6A RNA methylation to explain memory effects after lead exposure is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lodhi, Niraj — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Lodhi, Niraj
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.