Testing chemicals for their effects on brain development using planarians
Planarian behavioral screening of ToxCast Phase I chemicals to determine context of use
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in the environment might affect brain development in young people by testing them on planarians, a type of flatworm, to see how these chemicals impact their behavior and brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Swarthmore College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Swarthmore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056934 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new method for screening environmental chemicals that may harm brain development, particularly in young individuals. By using a type of flatworm called planarians, researchers will assess how these chemicals affect behavior and brain function. The study will utilize a library of 293 chemicals to identify potential neurotoxic effects, comparing the results with existing data from other models. This approach seeks to provide a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional mammalian testing methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals concerned about chemical exposure and its effects on brain health, particularly in children and young adults.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by environmental chemical exposure or who do not have concerns about neurodevelopmental issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of harmful chemicals, ultimately protecting brain development in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using alternative organisms for toxicity screening, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Swarthmore, United States
- Swarthmore College — Swarthmore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Collins, Eva-Maria Schoetz — Swarthmore College
- Study coordinator: Collins, Eva-Maria Schoetz
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.