Investigating how environmental toxins affect anxiety and gut health
Effects of environmental contaminants on anxiety-like and fear behaviors, and gut-microbiota in rodents
This study is looking at how a common weed killer called glyphosate might affect anxiety and gut health in rodents, with the hope of finding clues that could help us understand and treat anxiety in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10693846 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of environmental contaminants, specifically glyphosate, on anxiety-like behaviors and gut microbiota in rodents. The study aims to understand how exposure to glyphosate, commonly found in agricultural products, may lead to emotional and neurological disorders by disrupting gut health. By examining the relationship between gut microbial imbalances and behavioral changes, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways that could inform future treatments for anxiety and related conditions in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals concerned about the effects of environmental toxins on mental health, particularly those with anxiety disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by anxiety or do not have concerns about environmental toxin exposure may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how environmental toxins contribute to anxiety and mental health disorders, potentially guiding prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on glyphosate's effects on anxiety and gut microbiota is relatively novel, there is growing evidence linking environmental toxins to mental health issues, suggesting potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
San Juan, United States
- University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences — San Juan, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sierra, Demetrio — University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences
- Study coordinator: Sierra, Demetrio
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.