Investigating the neurotoxic effects of manganese exposure in South African communities.
South African Manganese EnvironmentaL NeuroToxic Effects Research (SMELTER)
This study is looking at how manganese from the environment affects the brain and movement skills of people living in Meyerton, South Africa, especially those who live near a big smelter, to see how their health compares to those who aren't exposed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Phoenix, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10977017 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to manganese (Mn) from environmental sources affects the neurological health of residents in Meyerton, South Africa. The study involves a cohort of over 800 Black African individuals, with more than 700 exposed to Mn emissions from a large smelter. Researchers will assess cognitive and motor functions using validated tools in local languages, comparing outcomes between exposed individuals and those from a non-exposed community. The goal is to determine the progression of motor and cognitive health effects associated with manganese exposure over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black African residents living in areas with high manganese emissions, particularly those in Meyerton.
Not a fit: Patients living outside of manganese-affected areas or those not exposed to manganese emissions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive and motor impairments caused by environmental manganese exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant neurological health effects related to manganese exposure, indicating that this approach builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Phoenix, United States
- St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center — Phoenix, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Racette, Brad a — St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Racette, Brad a
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.