How social factors like discrimination and pollution affect health through DNA changes
DNA methylation & adversity: pathways from exposures to health inequities
This study is looking at how tough life experiences, like facing discrimination or living in polluted areas, can affect our DNA and, in turn, our health, especially for conditions like heart disease and aging, and it's for adults from different backgrounds who want to understand how these factors might impact their well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10363700 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between DNA methylation and exposure to social adversities such as racial discrimination, economic hardship, and air pollution. By analyzing blood samples from diverse adult populations, the study aims to uncover how these exposures contribute to health disparities, particularly in cardiometabolic diseases and accelerated aging. The research will utilize data from two major studies, focusing on the biological mechanisms that link social factors to health outcomes. Participants will be drawn from community health centers and other population-based studies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 35 to 94 years, particularly those who have experienced racial discrimination or live in areas with high air pollution.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 35 years or do not have exposure to the social factors being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for health disparities related to social and environmental factors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between social determinants and health outcomes, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krieger, Nancy — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Krieger, Nancy
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.