Investigating how the endocannabinoid system affects seizure activity during pregnancy
Sex-specific development of seizure activity following endocannabinoid system manipulation in the fetal brain
This study is looking at how the body's natural cannabis-like system might affect seizures in pregnant women with preeclampsia, aiming to find ways to help prevent these seizures and improve health for both moms and their babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10918254 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the endocannabinoid system in the development of seizures in pregnant women, particularly those with preeclampsia. By using a preclinical model, the study aims to understand how changes in cannabinoid receptor activity may influence seizure susceptibility. The research involves examining brain activity and the expression of specific enzymes related to the endocannabinoid system to identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing seizures during pregnancy. This could lead to improved management of eclampsia and better outcomes for both mothers and their babies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women experiencing preeclampsia or those at risk of developing eclampsia.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a history of preeclampsia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent seizures in pregnant women, improving maternal and fetal health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that the endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in modulating seizure activity, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jones-Muhammad, Maria Aisha — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Jones-Muhammad, Maria Aisha
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.