Nichd Neonatal Research Network
Clinical trials sponsored by Nichd Neonatal Research Network, explained in plain language.
-
Breast milk from donors vs. formula: which builds a better brain for tiny babies?
Disease control CompletedThis study tests whether extremely low birth weight infants (born before 29 weeks) who receive donor human milk during their hospital stay have better brain development than those given preterm formula. Infants whose mothers cannot or choose not to breastfeed are randomly assigne…
Phase: PHASE3 • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jul 18, 2026 00:00 UTC
-
Could a weekly shot boost brain health in preterm infants?
Disease control CompletedThis phase 3 trial tested whether giving preterm babies a drug called darbepoetin weekly could improve their brain development and reduce the need for blood transfusions. 650 infants born between 23 and 28 weeks of pregnancy were treated until they reached 35 weeks or went home. …
Phase: PHASE3 • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jul 03, 2026 00:00 UTC
-
Gentler resuscitation may protect fragile lungs in tiniest babies
Disease control CompletedThis study tests whether using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) during resuscitation helps extremely low birth weight infants (born before 28 weeks) breathe better and avoid lung damage. Half of the babies receive standard care…
Phase: PHASE1, PHASE2 • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jul 03, 2026 00:00 UTC
-
Waiting 30 seconds to clamp the cord could help tiniest babies
Disease control CompletedThis pilot study tested whether waiting 30-45 seconds before clamping the umbilical cord, instead of clamping immediately, is feasible and might improve blood health in extremely low birth weight premature infants (24-27 weeks gestation). 54 infants were enrolled. The goal was to…
Phase: PHASE1, PHASE2 • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 14:00 UTC
-
Blood transfusion showdown: can more red cells save preemie brains?
Disease control CompletedThis study looked at whether giving more red blood cell transfusions (liberal strategy) to extremely low birth weight babies (under 1000 grams) helps them survive without brain damage compared to a more restrictive approach. Over 1800 infants from NICUs were followed until 22-26 …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 07:57 UTC
-
Could a common heart drug save babies with a rare birth defect?
Disease control CompletedThis study looked at whether a medicine called milrinone can improve oxygen levels in newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), a birth defect that causes severe breathing problems. The trial included 66 babies who were on breathing machines. The goal was to see if mil…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: NICHD Neonatal Research Network • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 07:56 UTC