Investigating how a pesticide affects brain communication and memory in children
Official title: Brain derived extracellular vesicles-mediated neurotoxicity of deltamethrin
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10679858 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being exposed to the pesticide deltamethrin early in life might affect brain development and communication between brain cells, which could help us understand why some kids might develop conditions like ADHD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $423,423 |
| NIH project number | 1R21ES034956-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10679858 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children who have been exposed to pyrethroid pesticides and exhibit symptoms of ADHD or other memory-related dysfunctions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to pyrethroid pesticides or do not exhibit neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of early-life exposure to the pesticide deltamethrin on brain development, particularly focusing on how it disrupts communication between brain cells through brain-derived extracellular vesicles (BDEVs). The study uses animal models to examine the mechanisms by which deltamethrin exposure may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. By analyzing changes in BDEV biogenesis and their effects on synaptic function, the research aims to uncover the underlying causes of memory deficits associated with this exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that early-life exposure to environmental toxins can significantly impact neurodevelopment, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
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University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Laezza, Fernanda — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Laezza, Fernanda
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.