How maternal obesity affects breast cancer risk in children through gut bacteria

Effect of maternal obesity on breast cancer among offspring: role of the gut microbiota

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10886100

This study looks at how being overweight during pregnancy might change the gut bacteria in babies, which could increase their chances of developing breast cancer later on, and it aims to find ways to help reduce this risk for families.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886100 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of maternal obesity on the risk of breast cancer in offspring, focusing on the role of gut microbiota. It examines how obesity during pregnancy alters the gut bacteria composition in children, potentially leading to increased susceptibility to breast cancer. The study employs fecal microbiota transfers to explore these changes and utilizes advanced genetic techniques to understand the underlying mechanisms. By understanding these relationships, the research aims to identify preventive strategies for at-risk populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old whose mothers experienced obesity during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not children of obese mothers or who are over 11 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing breast cancer risk in children born to obese mothers.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research has shown promising results in understanding the link between maternal health and offspring disease risk, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.