Understanding Fetal Brain Development After Maternal Substance Exposure
Multimodal Optical Imaging on the Effect of Maternal Polysubstance Exposure on Fetal Brain Microvessel Function
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON · NIH-11177018
This research helps us understand how a mother's exposure to substances like alcohol and nicotine might affect the developing blood vessels in a baby's brain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11177018 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We know that a baby's brain development can be affected when a mother uses substances like alcohol and nicotine during pregnancy, leading to problems with brain growth. While much attention has been on nerve cell development, our team has also found that blood flow in the brain's major arteries is reduced. We are using advanced imaging techniques to look closely at tiny blood vessels in the developing brain to see how they are affected. Our goal is to learn more about how these changes in blood flow and vessel structure contribute to brain development issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the causes of congenital brain anomalies linked to prenatal alcohol and nicotine exposure.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention for existing conditions will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to a better understanding of how maternal substance exposure impacts fetal brain development, potentially guiding future strategies for prevention or early intervention.
How similar studies have performed: Our team has previously used high-resolution imaging to document blood flow deficits related to prenatal substance exposure, building on existing knowledge in this area.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LARIN, KIRILL V — UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON
- Study coordinator: LARIN, KIRILL V
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.