Understanding the link between mothers' bodies, gut microbes, and depression during and after pregnancy
Prediction, mechanisms and causality: a systems biology approach to elucidate the role of the dynamic interplay between maternal and microbial systems in the pathobiology of perinatal depression
This project explores how the balance between a mother's body and her gut bacteria might contribute to depression during and after pregnancy, especially for Black and Latina women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11193517 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Perinatal depression (PND) affects many pregnancies and can impact both mothers and babies, yet we don't fully understand its causes. Researchers believe that interactions between the gut and its microbial communities, known as the microbiota-gut-brain axis, play a key role in overall health and mood. This project will look closely at how these gut microbes produce important chemicals like serotonin and GABA, and how these processes might be different in women experiencing PND. By understanding these connections, we hope to find better ways to prevent, identify, and treat PND.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for pregnant women, especially Black and Latina women, who are at higher risk for perinatal depression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not experience perinatal depression may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to predict, prevent, and treat perinatal depression, improving the health of mothers and their babies.
How similar studies have performed: Initial pilot results from a longitudinal study have shown associations between gut microbiota and depressive symptoms, suggesting promise for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Penalver Bernabe, Beatriz — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Penalver Bernabe, Beatriz
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.