Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Conditions
Cellular Mechanisms in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
This research explores how alcohol exposure during pregnancy affects developing cells, aiming to better understand Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11199004 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that alcohol exposure during pregnancy can cause birth defects and brain problems, but we don't fully understand how it happens at a cellular level. This project looks beyond cell death to investigate other ways alcohol might harm development, specifically focusing on tiny, hair-like cell parts called primary cilia. These cilia are crucial for normal development, and our previous work suggests that alcohol can temporarily disrupt their function. By using various tools, we aim to uncover the exact cellular processes by which alcohol impacts these important cell structures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on this work may seek individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders or those at risk.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by or at risk for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, potentially guiding the development of new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work, including from this lab, has shown that cell death is associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, and recent findings suggest primary cilia disruption is another important factor.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parnell, Scott — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Parnell, Scott
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.