Understanding how excess manganese affects brain function and movement
Official title: Identifying neuronal targets and mechanisms of manganese-induced neuromotor disease
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10998783 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how too much manganese can harm the brain and affect movement and thinking skills, using special mice to learn more about the brain cells involved, which could help find better ways to treat people exposed to high levels of manganese.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,613 |
| NIH project number | 1F31ES036908-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998783 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to high levels of manganese, either environmentally or occupationally, and are experiencing motor or cognitive deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to manganese or do not exhibit any related neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the harmful effects of excess manganese on the brain, particularly focusing on how it impacts motor skills and cognitive abilities. The study uses specialized mouse models to explore the specific neurons affected by manganese toxicity, particularly those in the basal ganglia, which are crucial for movement control. By examining the role of a specific protein involved in manganese transport, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of manganese-induced neuromotor diseases. This could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for individuals exposed to high levels of manganese.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating motor and cognitive deficits caused by manganese exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that understanding the mechanisms of neurotoxicity can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Melkote, Ashvini — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Melkote, Ashvini
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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.