How early life exposure to opioids affects brain development
The impact of early life opioid exposure on the molecular and functional trajectories of septal cell types
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10931502
This study is looking at how being exposed to opioids during pregnancy might affect the brain development of babies, using animal models to see how certain brain cells change and what that could mean for their behavior and thinking later on.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10931502 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of opioid exposure during pregnancy on the brain development of offspring. By using animal models, the study aims to understand how specific brain cell types in the septal complex are altered due to early opioid exposure and withdrawal. The researchers will employ advanced cellular and molecular techniques to map these changes and their potential long-term impacts on behavior and cognition. This work seeks to fill critical gaps in knowledge regarding the neural mechanisms behind cognitive and behavioral risks associated with prenatal opioid exposure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include children who were exposed to opioids during pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to opioids in utero or who are adults without a history of early life opioid exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for cognitive and behavioral issues in children exposed to opioids in utero.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early life exposure to various substances can lead to significant neurodevelopmental changes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARWELL, COREY C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: HARWELL, COREY C
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.