Exploring how maternal trauma affects infant development through genetic factors
Understanding the transgenerational epigenetic effect of maternal psychosocial trauma exposure on infants via lncRNA-sequencing
This study is looking at how stress and trauma experienced by mothers can affect their babies' development, especially in terms of behavior and emotions, by checking for changes in certain genes in both moms and infants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889093 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how maternal psychosocial trauma influences the development of infants by examining genetic changes that may occur as a result of this trauma. The study will analyze RNA profiles in mothers and infants to understand the biological mechanisms that may lead to behavioral and emotional issues in children exposed to maternal stress during pregnancy. By focusing on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their role in gene expression, the research aims to uncover how these factors contribute to the transgenerational transmission of risk for conditions like anxiety and depression. The findings could provide insights into preventive measures for at-risk populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include pregnant women experiencing psychosocial stress or trauma and their infants.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose infants are not exposed to maternal trauma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for infants at risk of developing emotional and behavioral problems due to maternal trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the impact of maternal stress on child development, making this research a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ressler, Kerry J. — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ressler, Kerry J.
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 below.