How zinc intake affects growth and brain development in preterm infants
The Impact of Zinc Intake on Nutritional Status and Brain Development Among Preterm Infants
This study is looking at how zinc intake during a preterm baby's stay in the NICU can help them grow stronger and support their brain development, with the goal of finding the best amount of zinc to help these little ones thrive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10894782 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of zinc intake during the critical period of hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for preterm infants. It aims to understand how varying levels of zinc can influence the growth of lean mass, which is essential for healthy organ development, and how this, in turn, affects brain growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. By assessing the nutritional status of these infants, the study seeks to establish optimal zinc intake levels that could enhance their overall development. The research will involve monitoring zinc intake and its effects on growth metrics and brain development over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are receiving care in a neonatal intensive care unit.
Not a fit: Patients who are full-term infants or those who do not require NICU care may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional guidelines for preterm infants, enhancing their growth and brain development.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that optimizing nutrient intake in preterm infants can significantly improve growth and developmental outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bell, Katherine — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Bell, Katherine
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.