Exploring how components of breast milk can help treat brain injuries in premature infants
Official title: Investigating the therapeutic potential of maternal breast milk components for preterm white matter injury
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11057141 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain ingredients in breast milk might help heal brain injuries in premature babies, with the hope of finding new treatments to support their brain development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $451,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD117430-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057141 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk of or have been diagnosed with white matter injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or do not have white matter injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of specific components found in maternal breast milk to treat white matter injury (WMI) in premature infants, a condition that can lead to serious neurological issues. The study employs a novel high-throughput screening method to identify beneficial compounds in breast milk, particularly focusing on their ability to promote the growth and maturation of oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for brain development. By validating these compounds through both laboratory and animal testing, the research aims to develop effective therapies for this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve neurological outcomes for premature infants suffering from brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, previous research has shown promise in using nutritional compounds for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Jonah R — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Chan, Jonah R
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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.