How exposure to a common flame retardant affects metabolism differently in men and women
Official title: Mechanisms of Sex-specific Metabolic Disruption Caused by Organophosphate Flame Retardant Exposure
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10979373 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a common flame retardant called TDCPP might affect metabolism and health, especially in men, by testing it on mice to see how it influences body fat and insulin resistance, which could help us understand its effects on people and guide health advice.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,135 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES034786-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979373 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adult males who may be affected by metabolic syndrome or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not male or do not have metabolic health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to the flame retardant TDCPP affects metabolic health, particularly focusing on differences between sexes. The study uses a mouse model to simulate human exposure and examines how TDCPP impacts body fat and insulin resistance, especially in male mice. By analyzing the metabolic changes and the mechanisms involved, the research aims to understand the broader implications of this chemical on human health. The findings could help identify at-risk populations and inform public health recommendations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of metabolic disorders linked to environmental exposures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown associations between environmental chemicals and metabolic disorders, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
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University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rashid, Cetewayo Saif — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Rashid, Cetewayo Saif
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.