Investigating the effects of iron deficiency in newborns
Official title: Newborn Iron Deficiency
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11136375 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how not getting enough iron early in life can affect how babies and young kids think and learn, and it aims to find ways to help those who might be struggling because of it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 13, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $570,468 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD094809-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136375 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women, newborns, and young children who are at risk for iron deficiency.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in the early stages of life or who do not have iron deficiency may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how early-life iron deficiency affects cognitive development in newborns and young children. It examines the long-term impacts of iron deficiency on brain function, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for learning and memory. The study uses animal models to explore how iron deficiency disrupts mitochondrial function and neuronal development, aiming to uncover the mechanisms behind persistent cognitive impairments. By identifying these processes, the research seeks to inform better interventions for affected populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating cognitive impairments associated with iron deficiency in newborns.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that addressing iron deficiency can improve cognitive outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Georgieff, Michael K. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Georgieff, Michael K.
Related research
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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.