How manganese exposure harms brain support cells linked to Parkinson-like problems
Novel Epitranscriptomic Mechanisms in Metal Neurotoxicity
This project looks at whether manganese exposure changes chemical tags on RNA in brain support cells (astrocytes) and how that might lead to Parkinson-like movement problems in people exposed to manganese.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11231730 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will follow how manganese builds up in the basal ganglia, focusing on astrocytes where the metal concentrates. They will study chemical RNA marks called m6A and a reader protein (YTHDF2) to see how these changes drive astrocytes toward a pro-inflammatory state. The team will use cell and animal experiments to track neuron–glia interactions and manipulate the m6A pathway to see if that prevents harmful changes. Findings aim to reveal molecular steps that link manganese exposure to Parkinson-like brain changes and point to possible intervention targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a history of chronic manganese exposure (for example industrial workers or welders) or those with Parkinson-like movement symptoms who are willing to provide samples or be monitored could be relevant for follow-up studies.
Not a fit: Patients whose Parkinson's is clearly driven by other causes unrelated to manganese exposure are less likely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets or biomarkers to prevent or treat manganese-related Parkinsonism.
How similar studies have performed: Early studies link m6A RNA changes to neurodegenerative diseases, but applying epitranscriptomic mechanisms specifically to manganese-driven brain injury is largely new and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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.