Investigating how early manganese exposure affects behavior and potential treatments
Mechanisms and therapies for the neurobehavioral deficits from early Mn exposure
This study is looking at how early exposure to manganese might affect kids' behavior, like their ability to pay attention and control their impulses, and it will also test if treatments like Ritalin and guanfacine can help improve these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10477254 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of early exposure to manganese on children's behavior, specifically focusing on issues like inattention, impulsivity, and motor skills. By using a rodent model, the study aims to understand the underlying neural mechanisms that lead to these deficits and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and guanfacine. The researchers will assess how these therapies can alleviate the behavioral challenges associated with manganese exposure, providing insights into potential interventions for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents who have been exposed to manganese and exhibit symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, or motor dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to manganese or do not exhibit related behavioral deficits may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for children suffering from attention and motor function deficits due to manganese exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a link between manganese exposure and behavioral deficits, but this research aims to provide novel causal evidence and therapeutic insights.
Where this research is happening
Santa Cruz, United States
- University of California Santa Cruz — Santa Cruz, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Donald R — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Smith, Donald R
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.