How environmental toxins affect bladder function in individuals with autism
Official title: Impact of developmental polychlorinated biphenyls on bladder contractility
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10802747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to certain environmental chemicals called PCBs might affect bladder function in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, who often have issues with urination, to help find better treatments that tackle the problem at its source.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $372,100 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES035020-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10802747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder who experience lower urinary tract symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Autism Spectrum Disorder or those not experiencing bladder dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on bladder contractility, particularly in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who often experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The study aims to understand how these environmental toxins may disrupt calcium signaling pathways that are crucial for bladder function. By examining the relationship between PCB exposure and bladder contractility, the research seeks to uncover potential underlying mechanisms that contribute to LUTS in affected individuals. The findings could lead to better-targeted therapies that address the root causes of bladder dysfunction rather than just alleviating symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bladder dysfunction in individuals with autism, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that environmental toxins can impact other organ systems, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stietz, Kimberly Preston Keil — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Stietz, Kimberly Preston Keil
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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.