How breastfeeding and oxytocin affect women's heart health later in life
Lactation, oxytocin and maternal cardiovascular function later in life
This study is looking at how breastfeeding might help protect mothers from heart problems as they get older, by exploring the role of a hormone called oxytocin that increases during nursing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10846703 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between lactation, oxytocin levels, and cardiovascular health in women. It aims to understand how breastfeeding may protect mothers from cardiovascular diseases as they age. The study will explore the mechanisms behind this protective effect, focusing on the role of oxytocin, a hormone that increases during lactation. By examining both animal models and human data, the research seeks to uncover important insights into maternal health and heart disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who have recently given birth and are either breastfeeding or have breastfed.
Not a fit: Patients who have never been pregnant or who have not breastfed may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cardiovascular diseases in women, particularly those who have breastfed.
How similar studies have performed: Previous observational studies have suggested a link between breastfeeding and reduced cardiovascular risk, indicating that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bytautiene Prewit, Egle — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Bytautiene Prewit, Egle
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.