Oleoylethanolamide as a treatment to prevent long-term brain and autonomic problems after organophosphate exposure
Official title: Preclinical Development of Oleoylethanolamide as a Medical Countermeasure for Long-Term Neurotoxicity Following Organophosphate Exposure
Funded at Roskamp Institute, INC. · NIH-11336609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small study tests an available lipid (OEA) given by mouth to help prevent long-term fatigue, anxiety, and autonomic symptoms after exposure to dangerous chemicals such as certain pesticides or nerve agents.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roskamp Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sarasota, United States) |
| Project start | May 20, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $468,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS147992-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11336609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years and older with a history or risk of organophosphate exposure who may experience or be at risk for chronic neurobehavioral symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without exposure history or without the chronic symptoms targeted by this approach may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project explores whether a naturally occurring lipid, taken by mouth, can reduce long-lasting neurobehavioral and autonomic problems after exposure to organophosphate poisons. It focuses on the gut–brain connection and how OEA might trigger signals that calm brain regions involved in mood, arousal, and autonomic functions. The team builds on prior preclinical work and a small pilot study to examine effects on fatigue, mood, and autonomic regulation in an adult population at risk from exposure. The work includes biochemical, neurological, and behavioral assessments to understand safety and potential benefits for survivors or at-risk individuals. The study is designed to translate promising preclinical findings toward a future therapeutic option.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce long-term fatigue, anxiety, and autonomic dysfunction after organophosphate exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical data and a pilot clinical trial have shown promising signals of benefit in reducing fatigue and improving mood.
Where this research is happening
-
Roskamp Institute, INC.
Sarasota, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abdullah, Laila — Roskamp Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Abdullah, Laila
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.