How prenatal inflammation affects brain development and function

Prenatal inflammation disrupts blood-brain barrier development and long-term function

['FUNDING_R01'] · CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES · NIH-11219664

This study is looking at how inflammation during pregnancy might affect the developing brain of the baby, which could lead to learning and behavior challenges later on, and it aims to find out how the mother's immune system influences this process.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11219664 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how inflammation during pregnancy can disrupt the development of the blood-brain barrier in the fetus, potentially leading to long-term neurodevelopmental issues in the child. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind this disruption, particularly how maternal immune activation affects brain microglia and overall brain health. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers aim to identify changes in the blood-brain barrier and the resulting impact on brain function over time. This knowledge could help in developing strategies to mitigate risks associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include pregnant individuals and their offspring, particularly those with a history of maternal immune activation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose conditions are unrelated to prenatal inflammation or neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders in children exposed to prenatal inflammation.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that prenatal factors can significantly influence neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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 →

Conditions: age associated neurodegenerative disease, age associated neurodegenerative disorder

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.