How pesticides affect child brain development through gut bacteria

Role of the gut microbiome in pesticide-induced effects on child neurodevelopment

NIH-funded research University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab · NIH-10812318

This study is looking at how pesticides might affect children's brain development by exploring the role of gut bacteria, and it's for families with kids, as it follows 3,000 mother-child pairs over time to see how these factors are connected.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Berkeley, United States)
Project IDNIH-10812318 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of pesticides on child neurodevelopment by examining the role of the gut microbiome. It focuses on a large cohort of 3,000 mother and child pairs, tracking their health and development over several years. The study aims to identify specific pesticides that may disrupt microbial communities and, in turn, affect brain development and behavior in children. By utilizing advanced data analysis techniques, including artificial intelligence, the research seeks to uncover critical links between pesticide exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are mothers and their children, particularly those who have been exposed to pesticides during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not mothers or children, or those who have not been exposed to pesticides, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of neurodevelopmental delays in children caused by environmental factors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental factors, including pesticides, can significantly impact health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Berkeley, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.