How genetics and inflammation affect cognitive development in children born extremely preterm

Genetic and Epigenetic Effects on Childhood Cognitive Trajectories

NIH-funded research University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-10894171

This study is looking at how being born very early affects children's thinking skills as they grow up, and it’s for families with kids who were born extremely preterm; we want to see how genes and other factors might help us understand their learning and development from ages 2 to 17.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894171 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive development of children born extremely preterm, focusing on how genetic and epigenetic factors influence their cognitive trajectories from ages 2 to 17. The study aims to identify immune factors and genetic variants that predict cognitive function outcomes, particularly in relation to neonatal inflammation. By examining these links, the research seeks to understand the patterns of cognitive impairment and improvement in this vulnerable population. Participants will undergo assessments that include genetic testing and cognitive evaluations over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 2 to 17 who were born extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks gestation).

Not a fit: Patients who were born full term or those outside the age range of 2 to 17 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve cognitive outcomes for children born extremely preterm.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive trajectories in preterm infants, but this specific genetic and epigenetic approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.