Investigating how early lead exposure affects the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias from Perinatal Lead Exposure: Brain Region and Cell Type Effects
This study is looking at how being exposed to lead when we're young might increase the chances of developing Alzheimer's and other types of dementia as we get older, using mice to see how lead affects the brain and which brain cells are most at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10993190 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of lead exposure during early life on the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias later in life. By using a mouse model, the study examines how lead affects different brain regions and cell types, particularly focusing on epigenetic changes that may contribute to cognitive decline. The researchers aim to identify which brain cells are most vulnerable to lead exposure and how these changes persist into adulthood. This work combines toxicology and epidemiology to better understand the environmental factors influencing dementia risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced lead exposure during early life and are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to lead or do not have a family history of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias linked to environmental exposures.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown a correlation between lead exposure and cognitive decline, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bakulski, Kelly — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Bakulski, Kelly
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.