Understanding how human milk production is regulated and its effects on infant growth
Official title: Molecular mechanisms for regulation of volume and nutrient content of human milk and their relationship with infant growth
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-10984126 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes and factors affect how much milk new moms produce and its nutritional quality, with the hope of finding ways to help mothers who struggle with breastfeeding.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | September 13, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $123,195 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HD113880-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984126 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include breastfeeding mothers experiencing low milk production or those interested in understanding the factors affecting their milk supply.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not breastfeeding or those who have already ceased breastfeeding may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms that control the volume and nutrient content of human milk, which is crucial for infant health. By analyzing milk samples from mothers with varying milk production levels, the study aims to identify specific genes and factors that influence milk supply and infant growth. The research employs advanced molecular biology techniques, including genomic sequencing and analysis of mammary gland tissue, to uncover insights that could lead to better support for breastfeeding mothers. Ultimately, the goal is to develop diagnostic markers and potential treatments for low milk production.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved breastfeeding support and interventions for mothers struggling with low milk production, enhancing infant health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the biological factors influencing milk production, but this specific approach focusing on the C6orf15 gene is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golan Maor, Yarden — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Golan Maor, Yarden
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.