How early exposure to PCBs affects the immune system in adolescents

Human Immunotoxicity of Developmental PCB Exposure

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-10848484

This study is looking at how exposure to certain environmental pollutants called PCBs affects the immune system in teenagers, helping us understand how these chemicals might influence their ability to fight infections and respond to vaccines.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10848484 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), environmental pollutants, on the immune system development in adolescents. It focuses on understanding how exposure to these chemicals during critical developmental periods influences immune function and responses to infections and vaccines. The study will involve examining immune responses in 400 adolescents who were part of a previous cohort, assessing their immune capabilities and health outcomes. By analyzing the relationship between PCB exposure and immune function, the research aims to provide insights into the long-term effects of early environmental exposures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who have had early life exposure to PCBs.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to PCBs or who are outside the age range of 12-20 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for immune-related health issues in adolescents exposed to environmental toxins.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown associations between early PCB exposure and immune function deficits, indicating that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.