Investigating how manganese exposure affects brain function and mood.

Neuroimaging of Manganese Toxicity

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-11012790

This study is looking at how breathing in manganese from welding fumes might affect brain health, especially in terms of mood, thinking skills, and movement, using special brain scans to see how manganese builds up in different areas of the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012790 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the effects of manganese exposure, particularly from welding fumes, on brain health. Using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS), the study aims to map manganese accumulation in the brain and assess its relationship with mood, cognitive abilities, and motor functions. The research will explore how oxidative stress and neurotransmitter imbalances are linked to these changes, providing insights into the dose-response relationships of manganese in specific brain regions. By examining these factors, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of manganese toxicity in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are welders or individuals with known exposure to manganese fumes.

Not a fit: Patients who have no history of manganese exposure or neurological symptoms related to manganese toxicity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of manganese-related neurological issues in exposed individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on manganese toxicity in animals, this research employs novel human neuroimaging techniques, making it a unique approach.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, 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 2026-06-09 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.