Investigating the neurodevelopment of children exposed to certain HIV medications during pregnancy
Neurodevelopment In HEU Children Exposed In Utero To Dolutegravir Or Efavirenz
This study is looking at how two common HIV medications taken during pregnancy might affect the development and emotional well-being of children who are born healthy but were exposed to these drugs before birth, to help understand any potential risks for their growth and social skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10869919 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how in utero exposure to two common antiretroviral medications, dolutegravir and efavirenz, affects the neurodevelopment and social-emotional outcomes of HIV-exposed but uninfected children. By comparing developmental outcomes at ages 2 and 5, the study aims to identify any potential risks associated with these medications. The research will involve assessments of neurodevelopmental and psychosocial factors in children who were exposed to these drugs during pregnancy, compared to those who were not exposed to HIV or antiretroviral therapy. This will help provide valuable insights into the long-term effects of maternal HIV treatment on child development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 2 to 5 years who were born to mothers receiving either dolutegravir or efavirenz during pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to HIV or antiretroviral therapy in utero may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for antiretroviral therapy in pregnant women, ultimately enhancing the health outcomes of their children.
How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in this area, the specific comparison of neurodevelopmental outcomes between children exposed to dolutegravir and efavirenz is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lockman, Shahin — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Lockman, Shahin
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.