Investigating environmental chemicals linked to autism and neurodevelopmental disorders
Official title: Environmental-use chemicals that target pathways linked to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11079508 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how some chemicals that pregnant people might come into contact with, like certain pesticides and medications, could affect the brain development of their babies and possibly lead to autism or other developmental issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2019 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $852,030 |
| NIH project number | 5R35ES028366-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079508 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals or families with a history of autism or neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or do not have a family history of autism or related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain environmental chemicals, particularly those encountered during pregnancy, may contribute to the development of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. The study aims to identify specific chemicals, such as pyrethroid pesticides and valproic acid, that could pose risks to the developing brain. By systematically evaluating these chemicals, the research seeks to uncover potential environmental threats before they lead to health issues. This approach combines biological monitoring and advanced technologies to assess the impact of chemical exposure on brain development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of harmful environmental factors, ultimately helping to prevent autism and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors can influence neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zylka, Mark J. — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Zylka, Mark J.
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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.