How prenatal alcohol exposure affects serotonin neurons and anxiety in children
Prenatal Ethanol Exposure and Nitric Oxide Signaling in Serotonin Neurons
This study looks at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy can affect the brain development of babies, particularly how it might lead to anxiety issues later on, and it hopes to find ways to help children who are impacted by this.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10470171 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of prenatal ethanol exposure on the development of serotonin neurons and its link to anxiety disorders in children. It focuses on understanding how exposure to alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), which are associated with cognitive and mood deficits. The study employs advanced techniques to examine the neuronal mechanisms involved, particularly how alcohol exposure alters serotonin signaling in the brain. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving outcomes in affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been exposed to alcohol in utero and are experiencing anxiety or mood disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not exhibit symptoms of anxiety or mood disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments for children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, improving their mental health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the neurobiological effects of prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies for FASD, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haj-Dahmane, Samir — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Haj-Dahmane, Samir
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 below.