Investigating how antidepressant use during pregnancy affects children's gut health
A Prospective Study Examining the Role of Gestational SSRI Exposure in the Development of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
This study is looking at whether taking certain antidepressants during pregnancy might affect the gut health of children later on, and it's for moms-to-be who are curious about how their medication might impact their little ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914835 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the potential link between the use of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) by pregnant women and the development of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in their children. The study aims to understand how SSRIs may alter serotonin levels in the fetus, which is crucial for the healthy development of the nervous system in both the brain and gut. By examining a cohort of children exposed to SSRIs in utero, the researchers will assess the impact on gut health and identify specific microbiome profiles associated with FGIDs. This research seeks to fill a significant gap in understanding the long-term effects of maternal SSRI use on children's gastrointestinal health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0 to 21 years who were exposed to SSRIs during pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to SSRIs in utero or who do not have gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of gastrointestinal disorders in children, potentially guiding safer treatment options for pregnant women.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on SSRIs and brain development, studies specifically addressing their impact on gut health in children are limited, making this approach relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Margolis, Kara Gross — New York University
- Study coordinator: Margolis, Kara Gross
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.