How male hormones during pregnancy affect brain and immune system development.

Perinatal Gonadal Hormones Impart Male-Biased Neuroimmune, Mitochondrial, and Behavioral Vulnerabilities.

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11129765

This study looks at how hormones during pregnancy and shortly after birth might affect brain and immune system development in boys, helping us understand why some may face challenges later in life, so families can learn more about the long-term effects of these early hormonal changes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11129765 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of perinatal gonadal hormones on the development of neuroimmune and mitochondrial systems, particularly focusing on how these factors may lead to behavioral vulnerabilities in males. By examining biological samples and conducting behavioral assessments, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which these hormones influence health outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights into how hormonal influences during critical developmental periods can affect long-term health and behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would include expectant mothers and their male offspring, particularly those with a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are female or those whose conditions are unrelated to hormonal influences during the perinatal period may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders in males.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research may be novel, there is existing literature suggesting that hormonal influences during development can significantly impact neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.