How early exposure to pollutants and folate affects autism behaviors
The interplay of early life exposure to environmental pollutants and folate system in the etiology of autistic behaviors
This study is looking at how things like air pollution and folic acid during pregnancy might affect the chances of children developing autism, and it aims to find ways to reduce those risks for families.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009572 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between early life exposure to environmental pollutants and the folate system in the development of autistic behaviors in children. It focuses on understanding how factors like air pollution and folic acid supplementation can influence autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The study will analyze data from a large cohort of pregnant women and their children to identify critical periods of susceptibility and the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. By measuring pollutants and folate levels, the research aims to uncover modifiable risk factors that could help mitigate the risk of ASD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and their children, particularly those with a family history of autism or genetic susceptibility.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose children are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for prenatal care that may reduce the risk of autism in children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested a protective role of folic acid against autism traits, indicating that this research builds on promising findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oulhote, Youssef — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Oulhote, Youssef
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.