How birth timing and serotonin affect brain development in children
Official title: Synchronous network activity in the maturing prefrontal cortex: mechanistic impact of birth timing and serotonin
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11119773 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how when a baby is born and their serotonin levels affect brain development, especially in areas that help with thinking and learning, and it's aimed at finding ways to support preterm infants who might face challenges as they grow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $375,927 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH140184-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119773 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include children who were born preterm and may be experiencing cognitive or developmental challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who were born full-term and do not have any cognitive or developmental issues may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the timing of birth and serotonin levels influence the development of the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for cognitive functions. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind brain maturation during critical periods after birth. They will use advanced techniques such as electrophysiology and imaging to observe brain activity and test whether interventions can improve cognitive outcomes in preterm infants. The goal is to uncover insights that could lead to better support for children with developmental challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving cognitive development in children born prematurely.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of serotonin and birth timing in brain development can lead to significant advancements in treating developmental disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ribic, Adema — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Ribic, Adema
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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.