Understanding how viral infections affect the developing brain during pregnancy
Viral Neurobiology in the Prenatal Brain
This study is looking at how viral infections during pregnancy might harm a baby's brain and is exploring a specific gene that could help protect against this damage, with the hope of finding better ways to keep pregnant people and their babies safe from these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044098 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how viral infections during pregnancy can lead to brain injuries in the developing fetus. It focuses on the role of a specific gene, Hexosaminidase B, and its interaction with a cellular pathway that helps clear viruses from the brain. By studying these mechanisms in cellular models and animal models, the research aims to identify potential treatments or preventive measures for viral-induced brain injuries. The ultimate goal is to establish better standards of care for pregnant individuals at risk of viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who may be at risk of viral infections affecting their developing fetus.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those whose pregnancies are not at risk for viral infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for brain injuries caused by viral infections during pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral impacts on brain development, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill critical gaps in knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Children's Research Institute — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kousa, Youssef a — Children's Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Kousa, Youssef a
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.