Interactions between immune cells and serotonin in the developing brain.
Official title: Microglial-serotonin interactions in the developing brain.
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11124704 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a mother’s diet during pregnancy affects her baby's brain development and behavior by exploring the role of serotonin and immune cells, especially in boys, to help us understand how these factors might lead to mental health challenges later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $455,149 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137305-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124704 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who may have experienced developmental issues or mental health disorders linked to serotonin.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are over 21 years old or do not have a history of serotonin-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how serotonin, a key neurotransmitter, interacts with immune cells in the developing brain, particularly focusing on the effects of maternal diet on these interactions. It aims to understand how disruptions in serotonin levels during pregnancy can lead to behavioral issues in offspring, especially in males. By studying the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in shaping serotonin-producing neurons, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to mental health disorders. The approach includes animal models to observe changes in brain development and behavior linked to serotonin levels and maternal nutrition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating mental health disorders related to serotonin disruptions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of serotonin in brain development and its implications for mental health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bilbo, Staci D — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Bilbo, Staci D
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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.