Protecting brain development in fetuses with congenital heart disease
White Matter Protection in the Fetus with Congenital Heart Disease
This study is looking at how to help protect the brains of unborn babies with congenital heart disease by using a special molecule that might prevent damage from low oxygen levels during pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10557837 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to protect the brain's white matter in fetuses diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD). It focuses on understanding the effects of reduced oxygen supply during pregnancy, which can lead to brain development issues in newborns. The study aims to explore the role of a specific molecule, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), in preventing damage to brain cells caused by hypoxia. By supplementing BH4 during critical periods of fetal development, the researchers hope to improve outcomes for children with CHD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are fetuses diagnosed with congenital heart disease who are at risk for brain development issues due to hypoxia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have congenital heart disease or those whose brain development is not affected by hypoxia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain development and reduce neurodevelopmental delays in children with congenital heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using BH4 supplementation in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in addressing hypoxia-related brain injuries in other populations.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Children's Research Institute — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ishibashi, Nobuyuki — Children's Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Ishibashi, Nobuyuki
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.