Investigating the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on fetal development
Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause problems like facial and limb defects in babies, and it aims to find ways to help prevent or lessen these issues, which could lead to better care for families affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10894184 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) by examining the molecular pathways that cause limb and facial defects. Using advanced models such as genetically modified zebrafish and mice, the study aims to identify specific genes and compounds that can either mitigate or worsen the effects of alcohol exposure during pregnancy. By exploring these pathways, the research seeks to inform clinical practices and ultimately reduce the incidence of FASD. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include pregnant individuals who consume alcohol or have a history of alcohol use during pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy or do not have any related developmental disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic and molecular pathways related to alcohol exposure, making this approach both innovative and grounded in established science.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Kevin Peter — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Williams, Kevin Peter
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.