Understanding how manganese affects brain cells and movement
Neuronal Targets and Mechanisms of Manganese Neurotoxicity
This project aims to discover how manganese exposure, especially in children, harms brain cells that control movement, hoping to find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089489 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that high levels of manganese can build up in the brain and cause problems with movement, particularly in children and adolescents exposed to it in their environment. Currently, we don't fully understand how this happens or what treatments might help. This work uses advanced mouse models to specifically look at how manganese affects two types of brain cells, called dopaminergic and GABAergic neurons, which are crucial for controlling movement. By understanding these specific effects, we hope to uncover the root causes of manganese-induced motor difficulties.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is foundational for individuals, especially children and adolescents, who have experienced environmental manganese exposure and developed motor difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients whose motor problems are not related to manganese exposure would likely not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of how manganese affects the developing brain, paving the way for new treatments for motor problems caused by manganese exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Prior mechanistic work has focused on adults, but this project uses innovative mouse models to specifically address early-life exposure, making its approach novel for this age group.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mukhopadhyay, Somshuvra — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Mukhopadhyay, Somshuvra
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.