How maternal factors influence fetal growth when alcohol is consumed during pregnancy

Maternal mediators of fetal growth restriction linked to prenatal alcohol exposure

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10928164

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy might affect a baby's growth and brain development, and it aims to find helpful clues in the blood of pregnant women that could lead to better ways to support healthy pregnancies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928164 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on fetal growth restriction, which can lead to brain disabilities in infants. It focuses on understanding how specific maternal microRNAs and cytokines interact and contribute to this condition. By analyzing blood samples from pregnant women, the study aims to identify biomarkers that could help predict and potentially mitigate the risks associated with fetal growth restriction. The research employs advanced techniques to explore the biological mechanisms at play, which could lead to new interventions for affected pregnancies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who consume alcohol and are at risk of having infants with growth restrictions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not consume alcohol may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing fetal growth restriction in infants exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the link between maternal factors and fetal growth, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.