Understanding and treating learning challenges in children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure

Mechanisms and treatments of learning deficits in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

NIH-funded research Children's Research Institute · NIH-11193149

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy affects kids' thinking and behavior, and it aims to find ways to help children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) learn better by exploring specific biological factors and possible treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11193149 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on children's cognitive and behavioral development. It focuses on identifying specific biological mechanisms, particularly the role of the potassium channel KCNN2 and Apolipoprotein E (APOE), that contribute to learning deficits in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). The study aims to explore potential treatments, including pharmacological interventions that could improve learning outcomes. By examining both animal models and human subjects, the research seeks to validate therapeutic targets that could lead to effective interventions for affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders or have a history of prenatal alcohol exposure.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of prenatal alcohol exposure or those outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve learning and cognitive function in children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing similar cognitive deficits associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Washington, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.