Reducing brain damage from organophosphate nerve agents
Official title: Inhibiting mPGES-1 as a countermeasure to mitigate organophosphate-induced neurotoxicity
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11121803 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether blocking a certain enzyme can help protect the brain from damage caused by harmful chemicals called organophosphate nerve agents, which can lead to serious health problems, and it aims to find better treatments for people who have been exposed to these toxins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | June 19, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $231,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS136070-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121803 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to organophosphate nerve agents or are at risk of such exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to organophosphate nerve agents are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting a specific enzyme, mPGES-1, can help protect the brain from damage caused by organophosphate nerve agents. These agents can overstimulate certain receptors in the brain, leading to severe health issues. The study aims to explore the role of inflammation in brain injury and how blocking mPGES-1 could mitigate long-term neurotoxicity and behavioral problems associated with exposure. By focusing on this enzyme, the research seeks to develop a more effective treatment strategy for those affected by such toxic exposures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that prevent long-term brain damage and associated behavioral issues from organophosphate exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting inflammation to reduce brain injury, making this approach a potentially valuable advancement in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Jianxiong — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Jianxiong
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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.