Investigating how PFAS exposure affects reward processing in the brain
Official title: PFAS induced alterations in reward processing
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11005309 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to certain environmental chemicals called PFAS during early life might affect how our brains process rewards, which could lead to feelings of pleasure being diminished, and it's for anyone interested in understanding the potential long-term effects of these pollutants on mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $538,810 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES035019-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005309 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to PFAS during early life and are experiencing symptoms related to reward processing disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to PFAS or do not exhibit symptoms of reward processing disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), common environmental pollutants, on brain function related to reward processing. The study aims to understand how early life exposure to PFAS may lead to changes in neurotransmission that could contribute to psychiatric disorders, particularly anhedonia. Using both animal models and human data, the researchers will establish a dosing regimen that reflects human exposure levels and assess behavioral changes associated with reward processing. This innovative approach combines animal studies with human relevance to uncover potential long-term neurotoxic effects of PFAS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders linked to environmental toxins.
How similar studies have gone: While research on PFAS is ongoing, this specific approach to linking PFAS exposure with reward processing in humans is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cannon, Jason R — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Cannon, Jason R
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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.