How prenatal corticosteroids affect the gut microbiome of newborns.

Perinatal Precursors of Early Microbiome Development.

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10654730

This study is looking at how medications given to pregnant women at risk of having a premature baby might change the tiny bacteria in their newborns' guts, and it also wants to see how the mother's stress and mental health could play a part in this.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10654730 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of prenatal exposure to corticosteroids on the gut microbiome of newborns. It focuses on understanding how these medications, often given to mothers at risk of preterm birth, may alter the microbial communities in infants, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes. The study also examines the role of maternal mental health, particularly depression and stress, in shaping the infant's microbiome. By analyzing the differences in microbial composition between infants born to mothers who received corticosteroids and those who did not, the research aims to uncover critical insights into early microbial development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women at risk of preterm birth who may be prescribed corticosteroids.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not at risk of preterm birth may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for the use of corticosteroids in pregnant women, enhancing neonatal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant effects of prenatal corticosteroid exposure on neonatal health, suggesting that this area of investigation is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.