Understanding the long-term effects of HIV medications on bone and fat health in children

Identifying the long-term metabolic complications of in-utero and lactational antiretroviral exposure

NIH-funded research Rush University Medical Center · NIH-10762179

This study is looking at how taking HIV medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding might affect kids' bone and fat growth, so we can better understand the safety of these treatments for moms and their little ones.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRush University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10762179 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term metabolic effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding on children. It focuses on understanding how exposure to dolutegravir-based ART affects bone and fat development in young individuals. By analyzing banked biological samples from a previous study, the researchers will employ advanced imaging and molecular techniques to assess changes in bone mass and quality, as well as fat tissue characteristics. This study aims to fill a critical knowledge gap regarding the safety of current HIV treatments for mothers and their children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children who were exposed to dolutegravir-based ART in utero or during breastfeeding.

Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy or lactation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for the use of HIV medications in pregnant women, ensuring better health outcomes for their children.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on the effects of non-DTG based ART, this specific investigation into dolutegravir's long-term effects is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.