Investigating how anesthetics affect brain development through mitochondria

Mitochondria and anesthetic-induced developmental neurotoxicity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-11098892

This study is looking at how certain anesthetic drugs might affect the brain development of babies and young children, with the goal of finding safer ways to use these medications during important growth periods.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098892 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the impact of anesthetic drugs on brain development, particularly how they may cause neurotoxicity during critical developmental periods. The study will explore the role of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, in mediating these effects. By examining cellular responses to anesthetics, researchers aim to identify mechanisms that could lead to safer anesthetic practices for vulnerable populations, such as infants and young children. The approach includes laboratory experiments and possibly animal models to gather data on the effects of various anesthetic agents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children who may require anesthesia for medical procedures.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those who do not require anesthesia for medical procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety guidelines for the use of anesthetics in young patients, reducing the risk of developmental issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential risks associated with anesthetic use in young children, suggesting that this area of investigation is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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.