How depression in mothers affects brain development in children from different income backgrounds
Official title: Early brain development in children born to depressed mothers in high and low income settings
Funded at University of Cape Town · NIH-10904874 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a mother's depression can affect her child's brain development from birth to age 11, especially in families with different income levels, and aims to find ways to help children grow up healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cape Town NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rondebosch, South Africa) |
| Project start | September 9, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $364,596 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH131022-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904874 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 0-11 years whose mothers are experiencing depression, particularly in varying economic contexts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a mother with depression or are outside the specified age range may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of maternal depression on the brain development of children aged 0-11 years, focusing on differences between high and low-income settings. By utilizing brain imaging techniques, the study aims to understand how economic factors influence the neurological outcomes in children born to depressed mothers. The research will collect and analyze data from various regions, particularly in Africa, to identify patterns and potential interventions. This approach seeks to provide insights into early childhood development and the role of socioeconomic status.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support and interventions for children affected by maternal depression, enhancing their developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that maternal mental health significantly impacts child development, indicating that this study's approach is grounded in established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cape Town
Rondebosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Groenewold, Nynke — University of Cape Town
- Study coordinator: Groenewold, Nynke
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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.