Investigating how metal exposure during pregnancy affects child growth and development
The placental epitranscriptome as a novel mechanism behind prenatal metal mixture exposures and child growth and development
This study is looking at how being exposed to harmful metals during pregnancy affects the growth and development of children, especially in low-income and Hispanic families in New York City, to help find ways to better protect these kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11032831 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of maternal exposure to toxic metal mixtures during pregnancy on child growth and development, particularly in low-income and Hispanic communities in New York City. It focuses on understanding how these metals, such as arsenic and cadmium, interact with the placenta, which plays a crucial role in fetal development. By examining the epitranscriptome, a set of RNA modifications that regulate gene expression, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that link metal exposure to adverse health outcomes in children. The findings could lead to better protective measures for at-risk populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals from low-income and Hispanic communities who may be exposed to toxic metals.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those not living in areas with known high levels of toxic metal exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for children by identifying ways to mitigate the effects of toxic metal exposure during pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the effects of environmental toxins on pregnancy can lead to significant advancements in maternal and child health.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kupsco, Allison — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Kupsco, Allison
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 below.