How lead exposure affects stress responses in children
Official title: Developmental exposure to lead and noradrenergic regulation of the acute stress response
Funded at Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge · NIH-11138938 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being exposed to lead when kids are young might affect how they handle stress, especially in children aged 0-11, to help us understand and find better ways to support those who may struggle with anxiety or depression later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baton Rouge, United States) |
| Project start | May 12, 2025 |
| Project end | May 11, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,847 |
| NIH project number | 1R21ES037092-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138938 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been exposed to lead and exhibit stress-related behavioral issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the age range of 0-11 years or who have not been exposed to lead may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to lead during early development impacts the body's response to stress, particularly focusing on the role of noradrenergic signaling. By studying children aged 0-11 years, the research aims to understand the mechanisms behind behavioral changes associated with lead exposure and stress-related disorders like anxiety and depression. The approach includes examining the functioning of specific neurons that regulate stress responses and how they are affected by lead. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions for children facing these challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for children suffering from anxiety and depression linked to lead exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors, including lead exposure, can significantly impact stress responses, indicating that this area of study has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abdelmoneim, Ahmed — Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
- Study coordinator: Abdelmoneim, Ahmed
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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.