Understanding how PACAP helps newborns breathe at birth
Official title: Regulation of PACAP expression and its role in protecting early neonatal respiration.
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10997466 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called PACAP helps newborns start breathing and aims to find ways to prevent breathing problems in infants by exploring how this protein works in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $38,198 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176159-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997466 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are newborns and infants, particularly those at risk for respiratory issues or SIDS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 21 years or those without respiratory complications are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific neuropeptide, PACAP, in regulating the initiation of breathing in newborns. It focuses on the neural circuitry and molecular signals involved in this critical process, particularly in the brainstem. By studying how PACAP expression changes at birth and its effects on respiratory function, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could prevent breathing-related issues in infants. The approach includes genetic analysis and observation of neonatal mice to understand the implications of PACAP on respiratory health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing respiratory complications in newborns, potentially reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between PACAP variants and increased incidence of SIDS, suggesting that this approach may build on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clements, Rachel — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Clements, Rachel
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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.