Effects of light and sound exposure on brain development in premature infants
Official title: An Animal Model of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Exposure to Light and Sound
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10864443 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how light and sound in a neonatal intensive care unit might affect the brain development of premature babies, using gerbils to mimic their experience, so we can better understand how these factors could impact their hearing and vision as they grow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $235,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD114995-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10864443 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk of developmental impairments due to NICU exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or who do not require NICU care may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to light and sound in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) affects the brain development of premature infants. Using a rodent model, specifically Mongolian gerbils, the study simulates the NICU environment by prematurely opening the eyes and ears of the animals and exposing them to sensory stimuli. The research aims to understand the long-term impacts of this exposure on auditory and visual development, which could lead to cognitive and language impairments. By tracking brain activity and development during critical periods, the study seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind these potential impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved care practices in NICUs, ultimately enhancing developmental outcomes for premature infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the effects of sensory exposure on brain development, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mowery, Todd M. — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mowery, Todd M.
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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.