The effects of hormonal contraceptives on adolescent brain development
Official title: Hormonal Contraceptives and Adolescent Brain Development
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10818574 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how hormonal birth control might influence brain development in teenagers, focusing on an area of the brain that helps control mood, by testing it on young rats to see if it affects their hormones, brain structure, and behavior, which could help us understand any risks linked to using these contraceptives during a key time in development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,059 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD109618-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10818574 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent females aged 12-20 who are considering or currently using hormonal contraceptives.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adolescents or those who do not use hormonal contraceptives may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how hormonal contraceptives, commonly used by adolescents, may affect brain development, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for mood regulation. By administering hormones like ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel to adolescent rats, the study aims to understand the impact on hormone levels, brain structure, and behavior. The findings could shed light on the potential risks associated with contraceptive use during a critical developmental period, especially concerning mood disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and guidance on the safe use of hormonal contraceptives in adolescents, potentially reducing the risk of mood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the effects of hormonal contraceptives on adult women have been studied, this specific focus on adolescent brain development is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leuner, Benedetta J — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Leuner, Benedetta J
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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.