How early life exposure to cadmium affects liver disease later in life
The Imprinted Gene Network in the programming of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by early life cadmium exposure
This study is looking at how being exposed to cadmium during pregnancy might affect a child's risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as an adult, and it aims to find ways to prevent or treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063565 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cadmium exposure during early life on the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adulthood. By analyzing data from pregnant women and their newborns, the study aims to identify molecular signatures in cord blood that indicate cadmium exposure. Using mouse and cell culture models, researchers will explore how these molecular changes contribute to liver disease. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies for preventing or reversing NAFLD linked to early cadmium exposure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who were exposed to cadmium during early life, particularly those with a family history of liver disease or metabolic disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cadmium or do not have a risk of developing liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention strategies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, potentially reducing the risk of liver cancer in affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown a link between environmental toxins and liver disease, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Raleigh, United States
- North Carolina State University Raleigh — Raleigh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowley, Michael — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Cowley, Michael
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.