The impact of mothers' childhood experiences on their children's immune health
Official title: Mothers' childhood experiences, maternal sensitivity, and immune regulation in young children
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11178037 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how both tough and positive experiences from childhood can affect how mothers care for their young children, especially if the mothers are dealing with opioid dependence, to help improve the health and well-being of their little ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00HD109419-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178037 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include mothers with a history of adverse childhood experiences who are currently living with opioid dependence and their infants or toddlers aged 3 months to 36 months.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of adverse childhood experiences or are not mothers of young children may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) affect maternal sensitivity and immune regulation in young children, particularly those whose mothers are living with opioid dependence. The study will explore the connections between mothers' past experiences and their ability to provide sensitive care, which is crucial for the health of their infants and toddlers. By examining these relationships, the research aims to identify biobehavioral mechanisms that could help mitigate the negative effects of ACEs on child health. Participants will include mothers and their children, with a focus on understanding how parenting practices can influence immune function in early childhood.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that enhance maternal sensitivity and child health outcomes in high-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that interventions targeting maternal sensitivity can positively impact child health, indicating potential success for this study's approach.
Where this research is happening
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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Zhiyuan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Yu, Zhiyuan
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.