How maternal COVID-19 infection affects fetal brain development
Cellular models of fetal neurodevelopment in maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection
This study is looking at how a mother's COVID-19 infection might affect her baby's brain development, using special lab techniques to better understand the possible risks and find ways to help keep babies safe during pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10612535 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential neurodevelopmental impacts on fetuses exposed to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. By utilizing advanced cellular models, the study aims to understand how maternal immune responses and inflammation during pregnancy may influence the developing brain. The researchers will generate human microglia-like cells from blood samples to explore these effects and identify mechanisms that could lead to adverse outcomes. This work is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate risks associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have not been exposed to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions to protect fetal brain development in mothers infected with COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there is emerging evidence suggesting that maternal infections can impact fetal development, indicating a need for further exploration in this area.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edlow, Andrea Goldberg — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Edlow, Andrea Goldberg
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.