How maternal air pollution exposure affects children's obesity risk
Mechanism for Programming of Offspring Adiposity by Maternal PM2.5 Exposure
This study is looking at how air pollution, specifically tiny particles called PM2.5, during pregnancy might lead to weight gain in kids, and it aims to find ways to help both moms and their children stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11012351 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during pregnancy may lead to obesity in children. Using genetically-modified animal models, the study aims to understand the biological mechanisms behind this programming, particularly focusing on the role of maternal inflammation and gene expression changes in oocytes. By exploring the relationship between maternal PM2.5 exposure and offspring adiposity, the research seeks to identify potential intervention strategies that could benefit both mothers and their children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women exposed to high levels of air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those whose exposure to PM2.5 is minimal may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies to reduce obesity risk in children exposed to air pollution during pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown a correlation between maternal air pollution exposure and childhood obesity, but this research aims to explore the underlying mechanisms in greater detail.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ying, Zhekang — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Ying, Zhekang
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.