Understanding how gut bacteria affect antidepressant responses in pregnant women
Uncovering Microbial Modifiers of Antidepressant Responses during Pregnancy
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the gut of pregnant women might affect how well antidepressants work for them, with the goal of finding safer and more effective treatments for depression during pregnancy that also consider the health of the baby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11125791 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the gut microbiome in influencing how pregnant women respond to antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It aims to identify factors that affect the efficacy of these medications and their potential impact on fetal development. By examining the relationship between gut bacteria and SSRIs, the study seeks to uncover safer and more effective treatment options for antenatal depression. The research will involve analyzing changes in the gut microbiome and their effects on both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women experiencing antenatal depression who are considering or currently using SSRIs.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a diagnosis of antenatal depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved antidepressant treatments for pregnant women, minimizing risks to both mothers and their developing babies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain connection, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights into antidepressant efficacy during pregnancy.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsiao, Elaine — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Hsiao, Elaine
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.