The effects of traumatic brain injury during pregnancy on the brain development of children

Gravida traumatic brain injury (TBI) impacts neurodevelopment of the offspring

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11096072

This study is looking at how brain injuries from domestic violence during pregnancy might affect the development of babies, helping us understand how stress and inflammation can impact their future behavior and brain health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11096072 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how traumatic brain injuries (TBI) experienced by pregnant women due to intimate partner violence can affect the neurodevelopment of their children. The study aims to understand the biological mechanisms behind these effects by conducting laboratory studies, as direct human studies are not feasible. Researchers will analyze the impact of TBI on fetal development, focusing on stress, inflammation, and neuropsychiatric outcomes in offspring. Preliminary findings suggest that TBI during pregnancy may lead to significant changes in brain circuitry and behavior in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who have experienced intimate partner violence and may have sustained a traumatic brain injury.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced intimate partner violence or traumatic brain injury during pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for developmental disorders in children born to mothers who have experienced TBI during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on gravida TBI is novel, related research has shown that maternal health impacts child neurodevelopment, indicating potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.