Understanding how genes and environment interact to affect health risks from chemicals

Characterizing Gene-Environment Interactions that Affect Individual Susceptibility to an Expanding Chemical Exposome

NIH-funded research North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11078269

This study is looking at how our genes and exposure to certain chemicals in the environment can affect our health, like increasing the risk of cancer or affecting brain function, using zebrafish to find out which chemicals are most harmful and how our genetic makeup plays a role, all to help keep people safe from these risks.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078269 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how individual genetic differences interact with environmental chemical exposures to influence health outcomes, such as cancer and cognitive impairments. By using advanced screening technologies and analyzing a diverse population of zebrafish, the study aims to identify which chemicals pose the greatest health risks and how genetic factors contribute to these risks. The research will also explore critical exposure levels and validate specific genomic regions linked to susceptibility. This approach seeks to provide insights that could help protect vulnerable populations from harmful chemical exposures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cancer or cognitive disorders, as well as those living in areas with high chemical exposure.

Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to environmental chemicals or do not have a genetic predisposition to related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of health issues related to chemical exposures, particularly for those genetically predisposed to such risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene-environment interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.