How urban air pollution affects children's brain and behavior development

Urban air pollution and neurobehavioral trajectories in the ABCD study

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10871857

This study is looking at how air pollution, specifically tiny particles in the air, affects the brain development and behavior of children living in cities, and it’s for families who want to understand how their environment might impact their kids' growth and learning.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10871857 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on the neurobehavioral development of children living in urban areas. By utilizing data from the nationwide Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, the project will assess how exposure to air pollution during prenatal and childhood stages influences brain development and behavior in boys and girls across various U.S. cities. The study aims to address existing gaps in knowledge by conducting longitudinal assessments and examining the interplay between air pollution and social factors. Participants will be monitored over time to better understand the long-term effects of air pollution on cognitive and behavioral outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 9 to 10 years old living in urban areas with varying levels of air pollution.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in urban areas or are outside the age range of 9 to 10 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions to protect children's brain health from the harmful effects of air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant neurotoxic effects of air pollution on children, suggesting that this study builds on established findings while addressing critical gaps.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.