How prenatal alcohol exposure affects pain treatment and immune responses in adults

Prenatal alcohol exposure generates vulnerability to the proinflammatory effects of morphine and adverse neuroimmune consequences

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11041131

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy might affect health later in life, especially when it comes to using pain medications like opioids, and it's aimed at helping people understand the risks for those who were exposed to alcohol before birth.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-11041131 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on adult health, particularly focusing on how it may increase vulnerability to neuroimmune dysfunction when treated with opioids. Using animal models, the study examines the role of proinflammatory cytokines and immune receptors in the central nervous system following opioid therapy. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to shed light on the heightened risk of substance abuse and pain conditions in individuals with a history of fetal alcohol exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who were exposed to alcohol in utero and may be experiencing pain or substance use issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not have related neuroimmune dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and better health outcomes for individuals affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to significant long-term health issues, suggesting that this investigation into neuroimmune interactions is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.