How prenatal opioid exposure affects brain reward signaling and feeding in newborns
Sex-specific Impact of Prenatal Opioids on Brain Reward Signaling and Neonatal Feeding Regulation
This study looks at how being exposed to opioids before birth affects newborns' brain signals related to feeling rewarded and their feeding habits, especially comparing boys and girls, to help find better ways to support babies who might struggle with feeding due to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042789 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of prenatal opioid exposure on brain reward signaling and feeding behaviors in newborns, focusing on differences between males and females. By analyzing saliva samples collected immediately after birth, the study aims to understand how opioid exposure may lead to difficulties in feeding and increased hunger, which can indicate the severity of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). The research utilizes molecular and behavioral data to explore these relationships, potentially leading to improved management strategies for affected infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns exposed to opioids during pregnancy, particularly those showing signs of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to opioids during pregnancy or who are older than one year may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic and treatment approaches for newborns affected by Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of prenatal substance exposure, but this specific focus on sex-specific impacts is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts Medical Center — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yen, Elizabeth — Tufts Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Yen, Elizabeth
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.