Effects of opioid exposure during pregnancy on newborns

Neonatal Opioid Exposure and Withdrawal: Molecular and Behavioral Consequences

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10770403

This study is looking at how being exposed to opioids during pregnancy affects babies, especially those who might experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, and it aims to find ways to help these infants feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10770403 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of opioid exposure in pregnant women on their infants, particularly focusing on Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS). It aims to understand the molecular and behavioral consequences of this exposure by using a mouse model that simulates the conditions of opioid withdrawal. The study will explore how immune responses and genetic factors may influence the severity of withdrawal symptoms in newborns, with the goal of identifying potential therapeutic interventions. By examining the role of inflammation and genetic variations, the research seeks to improve early diagnosis and treatment strategies for affected infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include pregnant women who are using opioids and their newborns who may be at risk for NOWS.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose infants are not exposed to opioids in utero may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for infants suffering from withdrawal symptoms due to prenatal opioid exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of prenatal opioid exposure, but this specific approach using a mouse model is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.