How manganese exposure affects Alzheimer's disease development
Manganese exposure susceptibility as a modifier of excitotoxicity in Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how long-term exposure to low levels of manganese, which can come from things like contaminated water, might affect the development of Alzheimer's disease, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about environmental factors that could impact brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10731751 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of chronic manganese exposure on the development of Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on understanding how low-level manganese exposure, which can occur through contaminated water and other environmental sources, may influence cognitive decline and Alzheimer's pathology. The study aims to explore the relationship between manganese exposure and glutamate signaling, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease progression, using mouse and human stem cell models. By identifying these connections, the research seeks to provide insights into potential environmental risk factors for Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of manganese exposure or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of manganese exposure or who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease related to environmental exposures.
How similar studies have performed: While the neurotoxic effects of manganese are known, this specific investigation into chronic low-level exposure and its link to Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Fiona Edith — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Fiona Edith
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 below.