Exploring safer anesthetics for children to protect brain development
Novel neurosteroid anesthetics and developmental synaptogenesis
This study is looking at new types of anesthesia that could be safer for young children during medical procedures, helping to protect their brain development while still being effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10673850 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of novel neurosteroid anesthetics that target different cellular mechanisms to provide safe anesthesia for young children. Current general anesthetics may harm brain development, leading to cognitive impairments, so this study aims to develop alternatives that are effective yet less neurotoxic. By using animal models, researchers will evaluate the efficacy and safety of these new anesthetics compared to traditional options. The goal is to ensure that children can undergo necessary medical procedures without the risk of long-term cognitive damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 21 years old who may require anesthesia for medical procedures.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing procedures requiring anesthesia or who are over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer anesthesia options for children, minimizing the risk of cognitive impairments associated with current anesthetics.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing safer anesthetic alternatives, but this specific approach using neurosteroids is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jevtovic-Todorovic, Vesna — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Jevtovic-Todorovic, Vesna
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.