Investigating how environmental factors like PCB exposure affect dementia development
Official title: Environmental factors in pathobiology of dementia: the role of PCB exposure, microbiome, and tissue barrier dysfunction
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10982472 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain environmental toxins, like PCBs, might affect brain health and contribute to Alzheimer's and other types of dementia by changing the gut bacteria and bile acids, with the hope of finding ways to protect against these effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $713,928 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034691-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982472 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include elderly individuals at risk for Alzheimer's Disease or those showing early signs of dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dementia caused by non-environmental factors or those who are not elderly may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between environmental toxins, specifically polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and the development of Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias. It focuses on how these toxins may alter the gut microbiome and bile acid metabolism, potentially influencing brain health. By using experimental models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which PCB exposure impacts dementia progression. The ultimate goal is to identify ways to prevent or mitigate the effects of these environmental factors on dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of environmental factors in dementia, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lehmler, Hans-Joachim — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Lehmler, Hans-Joachim
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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.