3D mapping of how the uterus contracts during labor
The three-dimensional spatiotemporal dynamics of human uterine contractions using electromyometrical imaging (EMMI)
This project uses a new noninvasive imaging method to create three-dimensional maps of uterine electrical activity during labor in pregnant people at term.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175272 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would have a brief MRI to capture your body and uterus shape and then wear up to 256 electrodes on your abdomen to record electrical signals during contractions. The team combines the MRI-based geometry with the surface electrical data using Electromyometrial Imaging (EMMI) to produce 3D, time-resolved maps of when and where the uterus activates. Researchers will build a "normal term atlas" of typical activation patterns across labor and calculate contraction indices that appear linked to time until delivery. The project compares patterns across people and over labor to identify features that might signal slow or obstructed labor and inform future care.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Pregnant people at term who are admitted in labor and are willing and able to undergo MRI and abdominal electrode recordings would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who are not pregnant, are before term, have MRI contraindications (for example certain implants), or cannot tolerate abdominal electrodes would not be eligible and participants may not receive direct clinical benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help clinicians recognize abnormal contraction patterns earlier and guide care to reduce prolonged labor and unnecessary C-sections.
How similar studies have performed: EMMI was validated in a translational sheep model and early human data are promising, but the technique is still novel and not yet established clinically.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yong
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.