Understanding how anesthetics might affect future generations

Mechanisms and blood-based biomarkers of intergenerational neurobehavioral effects of general anesthetics

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-11123134

This project explores how general anesthetics given to parents might influence the brain development and behavior of their children, especially looking for clues in the blood.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123134 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We are looking into how common anesthetics might cause changes in parents' cells that could be passed down to their children, potentially affecting their brain development. Our work focuses on understanding the specific biological steps involved, such as how stress hormones and certain brain signals play a role. We also want to find markers in the blood that could tell us if these changes are happening. This knowledge could help us develop ways to prevent these effects in the future, particularly for neurodevelopmental disorders that are becoming more common.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational preclinical work does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit future generations by understanding the effects of general anesthetics on parents.

Not a fit: Patients not planning to have children or those without concerns about neurodevelopmental disorders in their offspring may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children whose parents have received general anesthesia.

How similar studies have performed: This research explores novel mechanisms and intergenerational effects of anesthetics, building on existing knowledge but venturing into less explored areas.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, 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.