How exposure to certain chemicals during infancy affects immune responses to vaccines
Official title: Vulnerability During Infancy to Immunotoxic Contaminant Exposures
Funded at University of Southern Denmark · NIH-10737655 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being exposed to certain chemicals called PFAS during infancy might affect babies' immune systems and their responses to vaccines, and it's for families with young children to help understand how early exposures can impact health later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern Denmark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Odense, Denmark) |
| Project start | April 1, 2020 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $364,949 |
| NIH project number | 7R01ES030394-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10737655 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include infants and young children, particularly those who may have been exposed to PFAS through breastfeeding.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 21 years or those who have not been exposed to PFAS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of exposure to perfluorinated alkylate substances (PFAS) during infancy on the immune system, particularly how it affects antibody responses to childhood vaccines. By collecting blood samples from infants and analyzing maternal milk, the study aims to understand the relationship between PFAS levels and immune development. The researchers will also utilize innovative technology to track breastfeeding and health outcomes in a cohort of over 1,000 children, enhancing the understanding of early-life exposures and their long-term effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine efficacy and better health outcomes for children exposed to harmful chemicals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a concerning link between PFAS exposure and immune response, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern Denmark
Odense, Denmark Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grandjean, Philippe Adam — University of Southern Denmark
- Study coordinator: Grandjean, Philippe Adam
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.