Investigating how exosomes contribute to brain damage from alcohol exposure
Role of exosomes in ethanol-induced neurotoxicity
This study is looking at how tiny particles called exosomes in the brain react to alcohol exposure during pregnancy, which can cause issues for babies, and it aims to find ways to help protect brain development in those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909967 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of exosomes in the brain's response to alcohol exposure during pregnancy, which can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). By using animal models, the study examines how prenatal and early postnatal alcohol exposure affects stress responses and behavior, particularly looking at the death of specific neurons that produce important hormones. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and explore potential therapeutic approaches to mitigate the negative effects of alcohol on brain development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders or those who have been exposed to alcohol in utero.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not have any related neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, improving their mental health and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological impacts of alcohol exposure, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Piscataway, United States
- Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. — Piscataway, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarkar, Dipak Kumar — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Sarkar, Dipak Kumar
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.