Understanding Lasting Brain Changes from Opioid Exposure Before Birth
Lasting Neurological Effects of Perinatal Opioids
This research explores how early life exposure to opioids might lead to long-term changes in brain development and emotional behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131118 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many babies are exposed to opioids before or shortly after birth, which can lead to lasting challenges in their development. We are using a special mouse model to understand how this early opioid exposure affects brain circuits involved in emotions and behavior. By looking closely at specific brain areas, we hope to uncover the cellular changes that contribute to conditions like anxiety or reduced motivation. This work aims to shed light on why these problems persist through adolescence and adulthood.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the long-term brain health of individuals exposed to opioids during early development.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not receive benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand the root causes of neurodevelopmental problems in children exposed to opioids, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat these lasting effects.
How similar studies have performed: Currently, there is very little information about the specific brain changes that occur with early life opioid exposure, making this a novel and important area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lobo, Mary Kay — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Lobo, Mary Kay
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.