How metals affect aging and heart health in young people
Impact of Metals on Biological Aging and Cardiometabolic Traits in Adolescents
This study is looking at how exposure to harmful metals like lead and mercury can affect the health and aging of teenagers, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to help find ways to prevent heart problems later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001014 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of toxic metal exposures, such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, on biological aging and cardiometabolic health in adolescents. By examining how these metals influence factors like DNA methylation and telomere length, the study aims to understand their role in developing cardiovascular diseases later in life. The research focuses on disadvantaged populations who may be more susceptible to these harmful exposures, with the goal of identifying effective prevention strategies. Participants will contribute to understanding how early life environmental factors can shape health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 years, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds with potential exposure to toxic metals.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 years or those not exposed to the specified toxic metals may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cardiovascular diseases in adolescents and young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown associations between metal exposures and health outcomes, but this specific focus on adolescents is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Argos, Maria — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Argos, Maria
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.