How anesthetics affect brain development in children

Mitochondria and anesthetic-induced developmental neurotoxicity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-10906738

This study is looking into how general anesthesia might affect the brains of young children under three years old, trying to understand if it can cause problems with thinking and behavior later on, so we can find ways to keep these little ones safe during surgery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10906738 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential harmful effects of general anesthetics on the developing brains of children, particularly those under the age of three. It focuses on understanding how these anesthetics can cause acute brain injuries that may lead to long-term cognitive and behavioral issues. The study employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to explore the role of mitochondria in neuronal health and how their dysfunction may contribute to these adverse effects. By identifying the mechanisms behind anesthetic-induced neurotoxicity, the research aims to pave the way for developing protective strategies for vulnerable pediatric patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of three who require surgical procedures involving general anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those who do not require anesthesia for surgical procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer anesthetic practices for children, reducing the risk of cognitive and behavioral problems associated with surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential neurotoxic effects of anesthetics in children, but this study aims to explore uncharted mechanisms, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.