Impact of early exposure to metal mixtures on children's lung health

Effect of Early-Life Exposure to Metal Mixtures on Lung Function and Mitochondrial DNA in Children

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10609404

This study is looking at how being exposed to harmful metals during pregnancy and early childhood can affect kids' lung health, using baby teeth to see how much metal they were exposed to over time, so we can better understand when children are most at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10609404 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to harmful metals during pregnancy and early childhood affects lung function in children. By measuring metal levels in deciduous teeth, which capture exposure over time, the study aims to identify critical periods when children are most vulnerable to these toxins. The researchers will analyze the cumulative effects of 14 different metals, providing insights into how these exposures may influence lung development and function. This innovative approach allows for a noninvasive way to track metal exposure from gestation through early childhood.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and children up to 6 years old who may have been exposed to metal mixtures.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have children under the age of 6 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for lung health issues in children exposed to toxic metals.

How similar studies have performed: While studies have examined individual metal exposures, this research is novel in its approach to assess the combined effects of multiple metals simultaneously.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-10 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.