Investigating how air pollution affects depression risk in adolescents
Air pollution exposure and emerging depression risk: Testing the role of peripheral inflammatory cytokines during adolescence
This study is looking at how breathing in polluted air might affect the mental health of teenagers aged 12 to 20 by checking their blood for certain markers and tracking their mood over six months, to better understand how the environment can impact their feelings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10673057 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between air pollution exposure and the risk of developing depression in adolescents aged 12 to 20. By examining blood samples and measuring inflammatory cytokines, the study aims to identify biological factors that may mediate the effects of air pollution on mental health. The research will involve a longitudinal approach, tracking changes in depressive symptoms and immune markers over a six-month period among 120 participants. This comprehensive methodology seeks to provide insights into how environmental factors influence mental health during critical developmental years.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are exposed to varying levels of air pollution.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not exposed to significant air pollution may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for depression linked to environmental factors in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between environmental factors and mental health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Denver, United States
- University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) — Denver, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manczak, Erika M — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Manczak, Erika M
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 below.