Investigating how PFAS chemicals affect brain cell health
Official title: Elucidation of mitochondrial mechanisms critical to mediating PFAS neurotoxicity
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11064765 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a chemical called PFOS, found in many everyday products, might harm brain cells that produce dopamine, which is important for movement and is affected in Parkinson's disease, to help find new ways to treat or prevent this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $236,237 |
| NIH project number | 5R00ES032488-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064765 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals concerned about exposure to PFAS chemicals and those with a family history of neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have concerns about PFAS exposure or do not have a family history of neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the neurotoxic effects of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS chemical commonly found in everyday products. The study will utilize both laboratory models, including the C. elegans worm and human stem cells, to explore how PFOS may lead to the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, which is a key feature of Parkinson's disease. By examining the underlying mechanisms of PFOS toxicity, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions. Patients may benefit from insights gained into environmental factors contributing to neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for neurodegenerative diseases linked to environmental toxins.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that PFAS exposure can lead to neurotoxic effects, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sammi, Shreesh Raj — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Sammi, Shreesh Raj
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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.