Investigating how manganese exposure affects ADHD risk through genetics
Official title: Manganese exposure and genetic diversity in risk mechanisms for neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10882716 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being around manganese, a metal that can be found in some water, might affect the chances of developing ADHD, especially in kids with different genetic backgrounds, using both mice and human cells to see how it impacts behavior and brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $688,904 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES035518-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10882716 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents who may have been exposed to manganese and are experiencing symptoms related to ADHD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have ADHD or have not been exposed to manganese may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how exposure to manganese during development may influence the risk of ADHD by examining the interaction between genetic factors and environmental influences. Using both mice and human stem cell models, the study aims to understand how different genetic backgrounds affect dopamine regulation and behavioral changes associated with manganese exposure. The researchers will simulate manganese exposure levels similar to those found in poorly filtered water, which is relevant to many communities. Comprehensive analyses will include behavioral assessments and detailed studies of brain function to uncover the underlying mechanisms linking manganese exposure to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a correlation between metal exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Fiona Edith — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Fiona Edith
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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.