How tiny plastic particles move into the brain
Official title: Mechanisms of nano plastic transport in the brain
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11073566 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny plastic particles in our environment might get into the brain through our sense of smell and what that could mean for our health, especially in relation to brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | January 14, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $404,989 |
| NIH project number | 1R21ES037200-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073566 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals concerned about exposure to environmental pollutants, particularly those with neurological symptoms such as anosmia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have concerns about environmental exposure or neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how nanoplastics, which are tiny plastic particles found in our environment, can enter the brain and potentially affect human health. The study focuses on the olfactory system, which may allow these particles to bypass the body's defenses and reach the brain. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers will explore how these particles interact with neurons and the mechanisms that facilitate their transport into the brain. This could provide insights into the risks associated with exposure to nanoplastics and their role in neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how environmental pollutants like nanoplastics impact brain health and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of nanoplastic transport in the brain are novel, related research has shown that environmental pollutants can impact neurological health.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hancock, William Olaf — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Hancock, William Olaf
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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.