Effects of alcohol exposure during pregnancy on the immune system of premature newborns
Official title: Fetal alcohol exposure: effects on immunity of the premature newborn
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10671044 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy might affect the immune systems of premature babies, especially those who are very small at birth, to find ways to help them fight infections better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $504,298 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA027020-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10671044 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature newborns, particularly those with very low birth weight who have been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or who have not been exposed to alcohol in utero may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to alcohol in the womb affects the immune responses of premature newborns, particularly those with very low birth weight. The study uses animal models to explore the impact of in utero alcohol exposure on immune cell development and function, focusing on how it alters the maturation of alveolar macrophages and their ability to respond to infections. By examining these immune changes, the research aims to identify potential treatments that could improve outcomes for affected newborns.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immune function and reduced infection rates in premature newborns exposed to alcohol in utero.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that addressing immune dysfunction in newborns can lead to significant improvements in health outcomes, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gauthier, Theresa Wanzor — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Gauthier, Theresa Wanzor
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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.