How environmental chemicals and genetics affect autism in children
Official title: Interactions of Environmental Chemical Mixtures, Genetics, and Immune Pathways in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Funded at Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-11094849 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in the environment and our genes might work together to affect a child's chances of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder, and it's for families who want to understand more about what might influence autism in their kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00ES032481-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094849 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who may be at risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder due to genetic or environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have any genetic or environmental risk factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between environmental chemical exposures, genetic factors, and immune responses in the development of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children. By examining how endocrine-disrupting chemicals may influence maternal immune function and contribute to ASD, the study aims to identify specific genetic subgroups that may be more vulnerable to these environmental risks. The research will utilize data from the Early Markers for Autism study to analyze the interplay between genetic and environmental factors, providing insights into the origins of ASD. Through this work, the researchers hope to clarify the inconsistent evidence surrounding the relationship between environmental chemicals and autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for Autism Spectrum Disorder in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of environmental factors in autism, but this specific approach combining genetics and environmental mixtures is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Kaiser Foundation Research Institute
Oakland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ames, Jennifer Lisa — Kaiser Foundation Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Ames, Jennifer Lisa
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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.