How prenatal alcohol exposure affects brain signaling in children
Official title: Role of Microglial Fractalkine Signaling in Altered Dopaminergic Wiring in FASD
Funded at Ursinus College · NIH-10666254 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy affects the brain development of babies, especially how certain brain cells and signals can change the growth of important neurons that help with attention and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ursinus College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Collegeville, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $349,738 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA030402-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10666254 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders or those who have been exposed to alcohol in utero.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not have FASD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how prenatal exposure to alcohol impacts the development of brain connections, specifically focusing on the role of microglial cells and a signaling molecule called fractalkine. By examining the effects of binge drinking during pregnancy, the study aims to understand how these factors disrupt the growth of dopamine-producing neurons, which are crucial for attention and executive function. The researchers will analyze changes in signaling pathways and microglial activity at different developmental stages to uncover the mechanisms behind these disruptions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for children affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on fractalkine signaling in the context of FASD may be novel, related research has shown that understanding neurodevelopmental impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ursinus College
Collegeville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Favero, Carlita — Ursinus College
- Study coordinator: Favero, Carlita
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.