Investigating the effects of maternal opioid use on fetal development and health outcomes.

POPI: Placenta, Opioids and Perinatal Implications

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10748428

This study is looking at how using opioids during pregnancy can impact the health of babies, and it’s for moms who want to understand how their opioid use might affect their little ones' development.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10748428 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how maternal opioid use affects the health of the developing fetus. It aims to explore the mechanisms by which opioid use disorder disrupts placental function and fetal development, potentially leading to adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and neurobehavioral issues. By analyzing biological samples from mothers and their newborns, the study seeks to uncover the links between opioid exposure and developmental challenges in infants. Patients may be involved in assessments that evaluate both maternal health and neonatal outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include pregnant individuals with a history of opioid use or opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without any history of opioid use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for preventing adverse outcomes in infants exposed to opioids during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant associations between maternal opioid use and adverse fetal outcomes, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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 2026-06-10 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.