Investigating how exposure to trichloroethylene affects brain health and causes neurodegeneration.

The role of lysosomal dysfunction in STING-mediated neurodegeneration from trichloroethylene exposure

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11068711

This study is looking at how exposure to a chemical called trichloroethylene (TCE) might affect brain health and contribute to diseases like Parkinson's, using animal models to see how it impacts important brain cells and processes, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11068711 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the impact of trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure on brain health, particularly its role in causing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease. The study will explore how TCE affects key proteins and pathways in the brain, specifically looking at lysosomal dysfunction and neuroinflammation. By using animal models, researchers will assess the effects of TCE on dopaminergic neurons and the mechanisms that lead to neurodegeneration. This research aims to uncover the relationship between environmental toxins and neurodegenerative processes, which could lead to new insights into disease prevention and treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to trichloroethylene and those at risk for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to trichloroethylene or do not have neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for neurodegenerative diseases caused by environmental toxins.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of environmental toxins on neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.