Understanding how the body removes manganese to prevent brain damage
Role and mechanisms of excretion in manganese neurotoxicity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11173850
This project aims to discover how our bodies get rid of manganese to protect against brain damage, especially for people with liver conditions or genetic differences.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11173850 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Manganese is a metal that is important for our health, but too much of it can cause severe brain damage for which there is currently no treatment. Our bodies primarily remove excess manganese through the liver and intestines. This project wants to understand how the body's ability to excrete manganese affects the risk of developing brain problems, particularly in individuals with liver disease or common genetic variations that might affect this process. Researchers will build on previous findings that identified specific transporters responsible for manganese removal. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat manganese-related neurotoxicity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with liver disease or those with genetic variations affecting manganese excretion, who are at risk for manganese neurotoxicity, are the focus of this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose neurotoxicity is not related to manganese levels or excretion mechanisms may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent and treat brain damage caused by high levels of manganese, especially for those at higher risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous foundational work by this team has successfully identified key manganese transporters and their role in regulating brain manganese levels.
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.