How early-life neglect affects brain function and behavior in adulthood
Official title: Role of PFC Activity in the Behavioral Deficits Induced by Maternal Separation
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11042255 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how being separated from a mother during early life can affect brain function and behavior, aiming to find ways to help prevent mental health issues later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 11, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $464,413 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD110541-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042255 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced early-life neglect or trauma, particularly those with behavioral or mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any form of early-life adversity or trauma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of maternal separation on brain activity and behavior, focusing on how neglect during early life can lead to mental health issues later on. By studying the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in animal models, the researchers will analyze how early-life adversity alters brain cell activity and gene expression. They will use advanced techniques like single nucleus RNA sequencing and voltage dye imaging to understand the long-term effects of maternal care on behavior. The goal is to determine if modifying PFC activity during early life can prevent or mitigate behavioral problems in adulthood.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions for preventing mental health disorders linked to early-life adversity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that early-life experiences significantly impact brain development and behavior, indicating that this approach has a foundation in established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teixeira, Catia — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Teixeira, Catia
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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.