Investigating how manganese exposure affects brain cell function and health
Official title: Mitochondrial mechanisms and signaling in manganese exposure
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11097345 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how manganese exposure might harm brain cells and affect thinking and movement, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how to protect brain health from this metal's effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $355,825 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034796-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097345 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with known manganese exposure or those experiencing neurological symptoms potentially linked to manganese toxicity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have no history of manganese exposure or neurological symptoms related to manganese toxicity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how exposure to manganese can disrupt mitochondrial function in brain cells, potentially leading to neurological issues affecting cognition and movement. The study focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial RNA granules in responding to manganese toxicity and aims to identify specific molecular targets within mitochondria. By examining how manganese accumulation affects cellular processes, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could inform neuroprotective strategies. The approach includes using human brain organoids and mouse models to evaluate the impact of manganese on brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for protecting brain health in individuals exposed to manganese.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on mitochondrial RNA granules in relation to manganese exposure is novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding metal toxicity and its effects on brain health.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Werner, Erica Marlis — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Werner, Erica Marlis
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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.