How environmental chemicals affect RNA modifications in developing embryos

Role of m6A RNA modifications in AHR-mediated developmental toxicity

NIH-funded research Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution · NIH-10647294

This study looks at how certain environmental chemicals, especially dioxins, might change a specific part of RNA in developing fish embryos, which could help us understand how these chemicals might affect growth and development in animals, including humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Woods Hole, United States)
Project IDNIH-10647294 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to environmental chemicals, particularly dioxins, impacts the modification of RNA in developing vertebrate embryos. The study focuses on a specific RNA modification known as m6A, which plays a crucial role in gene expression and various physiological processes. By examining the effects of different dioxin-like compounds on RNA methylation patterns, the researchers aim to understand the potential developmental toxicity associated with these exposures. The research utilizes zebrafish as a model organism to explore these effects in a controlled environment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals concerned about the effects of environmental toxins on reproductive health and embryonic development.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by environmental toxins or who are not in the reproductive age group may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how environmental toxins affect embryonic development and potentially inform strategies to mitigate these risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental exposures can significantly alter gene expression and RNA modifications, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Woods Hole, 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.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.