Investigating how environmental toxins affect anxiety and gut health in animals
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, hoping to find 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-10908899 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 mechanisms 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 regarding 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 gut health, potentially guiding prevention and treatment strategies for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific effects of glyphosate on anxiety and gut microbiota in humans are still being explored, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding the links between environmental toxins and mental health.
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.