How early exposure to certain chemicals affects children's immune health
Impact of Early-life Exposure to Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) on Neonatal and Early Childhood Immune Function
This study looks at how being around certain chemicals during pregnancy and early childhood might affect kids' immune systems, helping us understand if these exposures could make them more likely to get sick or develop allergies, so we can find ways to keep children healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11058458 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) during pregnancy and early childhood impacts the immune system of children. It focuses on identifying environmental factors that may interfere with immune development, potentially leading to increased susceptibility to infections and allergic or autoimmune conditions. By assessing exposure levels and individual characteristics, the study aims to understand the relationship between these chemicals and health outcomes in children. The findings could help inform strategies to reduce harmful exposures and improve child health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women and their children, particularly those living in environments with high exposure to SVOCs.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those not exposed to SVOCs may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for protecting children's immune health and reducing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown that exposure to individual SVOCs can negatively impact immune function, but this research aims to clarify the effects in human populations, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoffman, Jennifer K — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hoffman, Jennifer K
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.