Investigating how PCBs affect the gut microbiome and brain development.
PCB-mediated dysbiosis of the gut microbiome: A missing link in PCB-mediated neurodevelopmental disorders?
This study is looking at how exposure to certain chemicals called PCBs might change the bacteria in the gut of young mice, which could help us understand how these changes affect brain development and lead to problems in kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10744752 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and changes in the gut microbiome, which may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. The study aims to understand how these changes can alter the distribution of neuroactive substances to the brain and affect how PCBs are processed in the body. By examining juvenile mice with different gut microbiome conditions, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could lead to effective interventions for reducing the impact of PCBs on brain development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to PCBs during development, particularly those with neurodevelopmental concerns.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to PCBs or do not have neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating neurodevelopmental disorders linked to environmental toxins.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that environmental toxins can impact gut microbiome health and brain development, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lehmler, Hans-Joachim — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Lehmler, Hans-Joachim
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.