A device that mimics an artificial placenta to support extremely preterm infants
Official title: An Anticoagulation-Free Artificial Placenta Device
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10741704 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device called SiMOx-AP that helps very premature babies born before 27 weeks by mimicking the conditions of the womb, which could improve their chances of survival and healthy development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $461,780 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD113527-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741704 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are extremely preterm infants born before 27 weeks of gestation who require advanced respiratory support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not extremely preterm or those who are born after 27 weeks of gestation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel artificial placenta device designed to support extremely preterm infants who are born before 27 weeks of gestation. The device, known as SiMOx-AP, utilizes advanced microfluidic technology to perform gas exchange without the need for anticoagulation, which is crucial for minimizing risks associated with bleeding in these vulnerable infants. By simulating the conditions of the womb, this device aims to allow for continued normal development outside the uterus, potentially improving survival rates and reducing morbidity. The approach involves innovative semiconductor silicon-based membranes that enhance the efficiency of oxygenation while addressing the limitations of current technologies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates and health outcomes for extremely preterm infants.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of artificial placentas is being explored, the specific approach of using anticoagulation-free microfluidic technology is novel and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roy, Shuvo — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Roy, Shuvo
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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.