Investigating how certain receptors affect blood flow regulation in preterm infants

The role of Alpha1-Adrenergic Receptors Promoter Methylation in Cerebral Autoregulation in Fetus

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-11044156

This study is looking at how preterm babies manage blood flow to their brains when their blood pressure changes, focusing on a specific part of their body that helps control this process, to better understand why they might be more likely to have brain injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044156 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how preterm infants struggle to regulate blood flow to the brain in response to changes in blood pressure, a process known as cerebral autoregulation. The study focuses on the role of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which are crucial for constricting blood vessels to manage blood flow. By examining the differences in receptor activity between near-term and preterm fetuses, the research aims to understand why preterm infants are at higher risk for brain injury due to increased blood flow. The methodology includes both in vivo and ex vivo experiments to assess the functionality of these receptors in regulating blood flow.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are at risk of brain injury due to poor blood flow regulation.

Not a fit: Patients who are full-term infants or those without any risk factors for brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing brain injuries in preterm infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding adrenergic receptor function can lead to significant advancements in managing blood flow-related issues in neonates.

Where this research is happening

Tucson, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.