Investigating how choline supplementation affects brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Neuregulin/Alpha7nAChR Signaling, the GABAergic Switch and Neurodevelopmental Risk: Mechanisms of Gestational Choline Supplementation.

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10914853

This study is looking at how taking choline during pregnancy might help with brain development and could affect conditions like autism, so it's for expectant moms who want to know more about how their diet might influence their baby's brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10914853 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of choline supplementation during pregnancy on brain development, particularly focusing on the signaling pathways involving the nicotinic receptor, alpha7nAChR, and their impact on GABA neurotransmission. By examining genetic factors and their influence on neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the study aims to understand how these mechanisms contribute to the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the brain. The research involves both genetic analysis and behavioral assessments to identify potential risks and benefits associated with choline intake during gestation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include pregnant individuals and their offspring, particularly those with a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurotransmitter signaling in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.