How maternal milk affects social behavior in adults

Maternal milk cytokines activate cognate receptors in the neonatal esophagus to program adult social behavior

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10727420

This study is looking at how certain substances in breast milk from active moms might help shape the development of babies' esophagus and influence their behavior as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10727420 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of cytokines found in maternal breast milk and their impact on the development of the neonatal esophagus and subsequent adult social behavior. The study aims to understand how these biologically active substances in milk interact with receptors in the neonatal gastrointestinal tract, potentially influencing brain development. By examining the effects of maternal physical activity on the levels of specific cytokines in milk, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind these interactions and their long-term implications for offspring behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants born prematurely who are receiving maternal breast milk.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infants or those who are not receiving maternal breast milk may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how maternal milk influences long-term social behavior and cognitive development in children.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated that maternal factors can significantly influence infant development and behavior.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.