Understanding how lower chlorinated PCBs affect brain development

Investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms of lower-chlorinated polychlorinated biphenyl developmental neurotoxicity

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10918061

This study is looking at how certain chemicals called PCBs, which can be found in the environment, might affect brain development in children, especially when pregnant women are exposed to them.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918061 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of lower chlorinated polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on brain development, particularly focusing on how these chemicals may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders in children. The study aims to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which these compounds affect neural growth and signaling pathways. By examining the effects of specific PCB congeners found in pregnant women, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in understanding the risks associated with environmental exposure to these substances during gestation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women and their children, particularly those exposed to lower chlorinated PCBs.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have children at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders linked to environmental exposures in children.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on higher chlorinated PCBs, this investigation into lower chlorinated variants is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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 2026-06-09 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.