How maternal inflammation during pregnancy affects children's development and aging
Maternal inflammation in relation to offspring epigenetic aging and neurodevelopment
This study is looking at how inflammation in pregnant moms might affect their children's brain development and overall health as they grow up, and it’s for families who want to understand how a mom's health during pregnancy can influence her child's future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109496 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of maternal inflammation during pregnancy on the neurodevelopment and biological aging of children. By measuring levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in mothers, the study aims to understand how these factors influence the health of their offspring. Using a pediatric-specific epigenetic clock, researchers will collect non-invasive buccal swabs from children to track their epigenetic age over time. The goal is to identify biomarkers that can predict health risks in children based on maternal health during pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and their children, particularly those who may be exposed to maternal inflammation.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose children are older than four years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of children at risk for developmental issues, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between maternal health and child development, but this specific approach using a pediatric epigenetic clock is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shiau, Stephanie — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Shiau, Stephanie
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.