How triclosan exposure affects hormones and gut bacteria in adolescents and its impact on behavior.

Triclosan, pubertal hormones, and the gut microbiome: implications for neurobehavior

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-11142696

This study is looking at how exposure to triclosan, a common antibacterial ingredient, might change the gut bacteria and hormones in teenagers, which could affect their behavior, and it involves collecting stool samples from adolescents to see how these factors are connected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hadley, United States)
Project IDNIH-11142696 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to triclosan, a common antimicrobial agent, influences the gut microbiome and hormonal changes during adolescence, which may affect behavior. By analyzing data from a longitudinal study, the researchers will examine the relationship between triclosan exposure, pubertal hormones, and the composition of gut bacteria in adolescents. Participants will provide stool samples, which will be analyzed to understand how these factors interact and potentially lead to neurobehavioral changes. The study aims to identify critical periods during adolescence when these influences are most pronounced.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have been exposed to triclosan and may experience neurobehavioral challenges.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not exposed to triclosan may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of neurobehavioral issues in adolescents, particularly those related to ADHD and anxiety.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored the microbiome in infants and adults, this research is novel as it focuses specifically on the adolescent microbiome and its relationship with environmental exposures.

Where this research is happening

Hadley, 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.