Exploring how treating mothers with helminths can reduce inflammation in their children
Official title: A role for maternal helminth treatment to alter central inflammation and to reduce lifelong offspring inflammation
Funded at Northern Kentucky University · NIH-10579521 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how treating pregnant mothers for certain worms might help reduce inflammation in both moms and their babies, potentially leading to better learning and memory for the kids as they grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Kentucky University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Highland Heights, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $400,733 |
| NIH project number | 1R15MH132060-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10579521 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include mothers who are pregnant and their children, particularly those at risk for neuroinflammatory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a history of neuroinflammatory disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of maternal helminth treatment on inflammation in both mothers and their offspring. It focuses on how these treatments can influence microglial function and neuroinflammation, which are linked to various cognitive and mental health disorders. By examining the effects of helminth colonization during pregnancy and its potential to improve learning and memory in offspring, the study aims to provide insights into new therapeutic approaches for reducing inflammation-related issues. The research involves both neonatal and adult assessments to understand the long-term benefits of this treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that reduce inflammation and improve cognitive health in children and adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using commensalist organisms to reduce inflammation, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williamson, Lauren L — Northern Kentucky University
- Study coordinator: Williamson, Lauren L
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.