Investigating how diet may influence the effects of air pollution on autism in children
Examining dietary modifiers of associations between air pollution and autism-related outcomes in two cohorts
This study is looking at how being exposed to air pollution during pregnancy might affect the chances of a child developing autism, and it will also explore whether certain foods can help protect against those risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101296 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between prenatal exposure to air pollution and the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, focusing on how dietary factors may modify these effects. The study will analyze data from two large cohorts: the Nurses’ Health Study 3, which includes a pregnancy sub-cohort, and the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation, which follows high-risk pregnancies. By examining various dietary components, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin D, the research aims to identify potential protective factors against the risks posed by air pollutants. The outcomes will be measured using standardized assessments of social responsiveness in children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals or families with children under 11 years old who are concerned about autism spectrum disorder and environmental factors.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have children under 11 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help mitigate the risks of autism associated with air pollution exposure.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored the effects of diet on air pollution risks, this research is among the first to comprehensively examine multiple dietary factors in relation to autism outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Drexel University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lyall, Kristen — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Lyall, Kristen
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.