Understanding how oxytocin during labor affects a baby's brain development
Mapping postnatal oxytocinergic system and offspring neurobehavior after induced birth with oxytocin
This project explores how oxytocin given to mothers during labor might influence brain development and behavior in their babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175485 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many pregnant women receive oxytocin to start or speed up labor, which has benefits but also potential side effects. Some past studies have hinted at a possible link between oxytocin use during birth and certain brain development differences in children, but we don't fully understand how this might happen. This project uses a specialized animal model that closely mimics how oxytocin is given during human labor. By studying these models, we hope to uncover the specific ways oxytocin might affect the developing brain and social behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to pregnant women who undergo labor induction with oxytocin and their children, particularly those concerned about neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing labor induction with oxytocin or those without concerns about neurodevelopmental disorders may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the long-term effects of labor induction on children and potentially lead to safer practices for mothers and babies.
How similar studies have performed: While previous population studies have suggested a link, this project uses a novel, high-fidelity animal model to provide the missing mechanistic understanding.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palanisamy, Arvind — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Palanisamy, Arvind
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.