Effects of Prenatal Cocaine on Early Brain Functional Connectivity and Behavior

Grewen | Eiden
Researchers will study the effects of prenatal cocaine and other drug exposures including opiates on the development of infant brain connections during the first year of life.

The development of infant brain connections will be studied by imaging the brains of infants while they rest, at ages two months, six months and 12 months. Researchers will look at neurobehavioral and cognitive outcomes, and examine how specific aspects of parenting (Sensitivity, Harshness) moderate these effects. Results from the study have the potential to increase knowledge about infant brain development. The study also may help develop earlier, more effective interventions to prevent or reduce learning and behavioral impairments in this at-risk population.

Principal Investigator
Karen Grewen, PhD
University of North Carolina School of Medicine

Co-Investigator
Rina Das Eiden, PhD
Research Institute on Addictions

Funding Agency
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Grant Number
R01- DA042988

Dates
2017-2022