Investigating how alcohol affects brain signaling during pregnancy

CB1-mediated signaling in developmental ethanol effects

['FUNDING_R01'] · NATHAN S. KLINE INSTITUTE FOR PSYCH RES · NIH-10930799

This study is exploring how drinking alcohol during pregnancy affects the developing brain of babies, particularly looking at how it might cause long-term behavior issues, and it aims to find ways to prevent or lessen these effects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNATHAN S. KLINE INSTITUTE FOR PSYCH RES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ORANGEBURG, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10930799 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the effects of alcohol exposure during pregnancy on the developing fetal brain, specifically looking at how it leads to long-term behavioral impairments known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The study examines the role of CB1 receptors in the brain and how their signaling is altered by alcohol exposure, potentially leading to cognitive and socio-behavioral deficits in offspring. By using neonatal mice models, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these changes, which could provide insights into preventing or mitigating the effects of alcohol on fetal development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who were exposed to alcohol in utero and may be experiencing cognitive or behavioral challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not exhibit any related cognitive or behavioral impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for preventing cognitive and behavioral issues in children exposed to alcohol in utero.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding the role of CB1 receptors in alcohol exposure can lead to significant insights, indicating that this research builds on established findings in the field.

Where this research is happening

ORANGEBURG, 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.