Effects of DHA and ARA supplementation on metabolism in preterm infants

Metabolic mechanisms induced by enteral DHA and ARA supplementation in preterm infants

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-11109382

This study is looking at how giving very premature babies special nutrients called DHA and ARA can help their growth and development, especially for their brains and eyes, to find better ways to support their health as they grow.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11109382 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how enteral supplementation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) affects the metabolism and biological processes in extremely preterm infants from birth to 36 weeks postnatal age. The study aims to understand the molecular changes induced by these fatty acids, which are crucial for brain and eye development. A multidisciplinary team of experts in neonatal medicine and bioinformatics will analyze the metabolic pathways and health outcomes associated with DHA and ARA supplementation. The goal is to identify effective strategies for improving the health of preterm infants through better nutritional support.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are extremely preterm infants who require enteral nutrition.

Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm or those who do not require DHA and ARA supplementation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional strategies that enhance brain and eye development in preterm infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results with DHA and ARA supplementation, indicating that this investigation could provide new insights into their metabolic effects.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.