The Maternal and Child Nutrition and Development Laboratory conducts research regarding docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake during pregnancy and infancy. In addition, the lab studies the effect of DHA on infant/child development including cognitive and visual acuity development. World-renowned experts in their fields, Drs. Susan Carlson, John Colombo, and Kathleen Gustafson are the principal investigators in this highly interdisciplinary collaboration.
Two large, randomized-controlled trials make up the majority of the laboratory’s research. Supported by a combination of private and federal funding, the primary aims of both studies are to determine if DHA during early life can affect vision, attention and early-stage learning.
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid found in high concentrations in the brain and retina. Breast milk and, since 2002, U.S. formulas contain DHA. Many studies have shown DHA in the diet helps an infant's vision, attention and ability to learn. In this way, DHA is considered an important nutrient for babies after they are born. DHA may also be important before babies are born.
The first study is a postnatal supplementation trial that started in 2003. DHA was given to 159 newborns as part of their formula for the first year of life. These children continued to participate in cognitive assessments until they were six years old. Their diet, growth and rate of illness were also monitored.Future efforts to continue following this cohort are being explored. Press release
The second study is a prenatal supplementation trial that began in 2006. DHA was given to 350 pregnant mothers starting in their second trimester. Offspring were followed closely during the first year of life and continue to participate in cognitive assessments until they are six years old. Diet, growth and rate of illness are also monitored. Genetic differences in the ability to synthesize DHA is a special secondary outcome of this project. Press release
The Maternal and Child Nutrition and Development Laboratory serves as a training ground for students working towards their Master's and doctorate degrees in nutrition and cognitive development. These students are involved in many areas, including the recruitment of potential research participants, developmental and cognitive testing, nutritional assessments, computerized analyses of assessment results, statistical analysis of results and preparation of scholarly articles. All work in the laboratory complies with the policies on protection of subjects of the Human Subjects Committee at KU Medical Center.
©
The University of Kansas