Investigating how manganese exposure affects brain cells and their response to injury
Official title: Novel Epitranscriptomic Mechanisms in Metal Neurotoxicity
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11056459 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term exposure to manganese, a harmful metal, affects brain cells called astrocytes, which help keep our brains healthy, and it aims to find out how this exposure might lead to diseases like Parkinson's, so we can discover new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $441,529 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES036241-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056459 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic exposure to manganese, particularly those showing early signs of neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of manganese exposure or related neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of chronic exposure to manganese, a neurotoxic metal, on brain cells, particularly focusing on astrocytes, which are crucial for maintaining brain health. The study aims to understand how manganese accumulates in these cells and triggers inflammatory responses that may lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinsonism. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, including RNA modifications, the research seeks to uncover how astrocytes change from a protective to a harmful state in response to manganese toxicity. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating related neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases linked to manganese exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neurotoxic effects of metals on brain function, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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.