Investigating how general anesthetics affect future generations' behavior and health

Mechanisms and blood-based biomarkers of intergenerational neurobehavioral effects of general anesthetics

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-10844622

This study is looking at how being exposed to general anesthetics might affect not just you, but also your future children, by exploring how these anesthetics can change the cells that create eggs and sperm.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10844622 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the potential heritable effects of general anesthetics on neurobehavioral outcomes in future generations. It aims to understand how exposure to these anesthetics can lead to changes in parental germ cells that may affect offspring. The study will investigate specific mechanisms, including the role of stress hormones and certain cellular processes, to identify biomarkers that could help in developing preventative therapies. By using various commonly used anesthetics, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into the risks associated with anesthesia exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have undergone general anesthesia and have concerns about potential neurodevelopmental effects on their children.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to general anesthetics or do not have a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of strategies to mitigate the neurodevelopmental risks associated with general anesthesia exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on intergenerational effects of general anesthetics is relatively novel, there is existing research indicating that anesthesia can have significant impacts on neurodevelopment, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

GAINESVILLE, 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.