Investigating how estrogen receptor beta affects bladder function in relation to environmental pollutants.
Official title: Role of estrogen receptor beta in polychlorinated biphenyls impacts on bladder function
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11161742 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain environmental chemicals called PCBs might affect bladder health and cause issues like frequent urination or discomfort, with the goal of finding better treatments for people who experience these problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,290 |
| NIH project number | 1F31ES036876-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161742 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms, particularly those with potential exposure to environmental pollutants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have lower urinary tract symptoms or have not been exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), environmental chemicals that can disrupt hormonal functions, on bladder health. It focuses on understanding how these chemicals may contribute to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) by examining their interaction with estrogen receptors. The study uses a specific mixture of PCBs that reflects real-world exposure levels and investigates their effects on bladder function through laboratory experiments. By analyzing changes in bladder contractility and urinary voiding, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that could lead to better treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that environmental pollutants can significantly impact health, suggesting potential for meaningful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ridlon, Monica — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Ridlon, Monica
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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.