Future Expectations

Given the unique attributes of he MHRP it is poised to reap multiple benefit as research on Mn is expanded, and it is hoped that it will forge co-operations on multiple levels. Some of the envisioned benefits include the following:

• building upon existing strengths
  – the MHRP will develop into a most respected program
  – enhance interactions between the groups to accommodate emerging research directions and needs in such a way that the return on this investment will far exceed the sum of the individual projects
• the goal of the MHRP is to obtain novel information on the health effects of Mn from C. elegans to humans, ultimately leading to better risk assessment associated with the exposure to Mn, and a better understanding of its function in health and disease
• define and develop emerging research areas and identify future needs for Mn
• postdoctoral and graduate student recruitment to the field to ensure the vitality of this area of research
• spring new and traditional grants from other federal agencies (NIH, EPA, NIOSH)
• close collaborations with USAMRMC the sponsor of the MHRP, thus ensuring that present and future military issues associated with Mn exposure are met in a timely fashion
• annual meeting to disseminate new results

Acknowledgement; The Manganese Health Research Program is supported by US Army Medical Research and Material Command (USAMRMC) Award Number W81XWH-05-1-0239.