Understanding how toxic substances affect mitochondrial DNA health
Official title: Defining the cellular and molecular mechanisms of how toxicants disrupt mitochondrial DNA homeostasis
Funded at Southern Illinois University Carbondale · NIH-10291547 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how everyday pollutants, like phthalates found in many products, can harm the tiny powerhouses in our cells called mitochondria, which might help us find better treatments for people with mitochondrial diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Illinois University Carbondale NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Carbondale, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $463,378 |
| NIH project number | 1R15ES033394-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10291547 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have been exposed to environmental pollutants or have genetic predispositions affecting mitochondrial function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any mitochondrial dysfunction or exposure to relevant toxicants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the ways in which pollutants, particularly phthalates found in everyday products, disrupt the function of mitochondria by damaging mitochondrial DNA. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this damage and how it may lead to mitochondrial diseases. By understanding these processes, the researchers hope to develop new therapeutic strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of these toxicants. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better treatments for mitochondrial dysfunction caused by environmental exposures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect mitochondrial health and improve outcomes for individuals affected by mitochondrial diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of mitochondrial toxicity can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Carbondale, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Matthew J — Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Study coordinator: Young, Matthew J
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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.