Using fetal exosomes in maternal blood to predict fetal alcohol syndrome
Fetal-Derived Exosome Cargos in Maternal Blood to Predict Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
This study is looking at tiny particles in a pregnant person's blood to see if they can help predict if a baby might develop fetal alcohol syndrome from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, with the hope of finding ways to support families early on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054609 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of fetal-derived exosomes found in maternal blood as potential biomarkers to predict whether a fetus at risk will develop fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) due to prenatal alcohol exposure. By analyzing these exosomes, which can be collected non-invasively, the study aims to identify molecular markers associated with FAS and its spectrum of disorders. The approach builds on previous findings that linked specific molecular abnormalities in fetal brain-derived exosomes to physical and neurobehavioral characteristics of FAS. Early detection through this method could lead to timely interventions and support for affected families.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who have consumed alcohol during pregnancy and are at risk of having a child with fetal alcohol syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients who have not consumed alcohol during pregnancy or whose fetuses are not at risk for fetal alcohol syndrome may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable early diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome, allowing for timely therapeutic interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using molecular markers from fetal exosomes to identify risks associated with fetal alcohol exposure, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Temple Univ of the Commonwealth — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Selzer, Michael Edgar — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Selzer, Michael Edgar
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.