How exposure to PCBs affects brain immune cells in adolescents
Official title: PCB-induced priming of microglial activity across sexes and development
Funded at De Paul University · NIH-10513248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to certain environmental pollutants called PCBs affects brain cells that help keep our brains healthy, especially in young boys and teenage girls, to see if it might be linked to mood problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | De Paul University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $446,852 |
| NIH project number | 1R15ES033393-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10513248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20, particularly those who may have been exposed to PCBs or are at risk for mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12-20 or those not exposed to PCBs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), common environmental pollutants, on microglial cells, which are crucial for brain health. The study focuses on how PCB exposure may lead to heightened immune responses in these cells, particularly in male infants and female adolescents. By examining brain samples from different age groups and sexes, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which PCBs influence brain function and potentially contribute to mood disorders. The methodology includes isolating microglia from brain tissues and assessing their responses to PCB exposure through various laboratory techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for neurodevelopmental and mood disorders linked to environmental toxins.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental toxins can significantly affect brain function, suggesting that this study's approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
De Paul University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bell, Margaret Rose — De Paul University
- Study coordinator: Bell, Margaret Rose
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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.