How early life environments affect health through gene regulation
Early life environmental effects: molecular mechanisms and inter-individual variation
This study looks at how things in our early life, like our environment and lifestyle, can affect our health later on, focusing on two groups of people: the Turkana in Kenya, who are changing their way of living, and the Tsimane in Bolivia, who have been living traditionally for a long time. By examining their genes and health information, the researchers hope to understand how early experiences shape our health and find ways to help those who might be at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10929964 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early life environmental factors influence long-term health outcomes by examining changes in gene regulation. It focuses on two distinct groups: the Turkana of Kenya, who are undergoing significant lifestyle changes, and the Tsimane of Bolivia, who have been studied over many years. By analyzing genome-wide data on gene expression and DNA methylation alongside environmental and health information, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link early life experiences to lifelong health. This approach will help identify individuals at risk and inform potential intervention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from subsistence-level communities in Kenya and Bolivia, particularly those under 21 years old.
Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the studied populations or who have not experienced significant environmental changes in early life may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictions of health risks based on early life experiences and improved intervention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of early life environments on health, but this specific approach is novel in its focus on gene regulation across diverse populations.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lea, Amanda — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Lea, Amanda
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.