How maternal oxytocin and flame retardants affect children's social brain development

Maternal Transfer of Oxytocin and Thyroid-disrupting Indoor Flame Retardants Affecting Offspring Social Brain

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE · NIH-10893928

This study is looking at how certain chemicals in breast milk and the hormone oxytocin from mothers might affect how children, especially those with autism, develop their social skills and behaviors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10893928 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of maternal transfer of oxytocin and exposure to flame retardants on the social brain development of children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It aims to understand how environmental factors, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in breast milk, may contribute to the rising prevalence of ASD. The study will analyze the effects of these substances on social cognition and behavior in children, focusing on critical developmental periods. By examining the relationship between these exposures and neurodevelopmental outcomes, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms behind social processing disturbances in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years, particularly those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have autism spectrum disorders may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for autism spectrum disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential links between environmental exposures and neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

RIVERSIDE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.