A new urine test for preeclampsia

Detection of extracellular vesicles in urine for diagnosis of preeclampsia

NIH-funded research Sersense, INC. · NIH-11095873

This project is creating an easy-to-use urine test to help identify preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition, earlier.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSersense, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11095873 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that can be dangerous for both mother and baby, but current tests are not always available or easy to use. Our team previously found special cells and cell fragments, called extracellular vesicles, in the urine of patients with preeclampsia that could be unique markers for the condition. We are developing a new, simpler electrochemical test that can quickly check urine for these specific markers. This new test aims to make screening for preeclampsia much easier and more widely available for pregnant women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Pregnant individuals who are at risk for or are experiencing symptoms of preeclampsia would be the ideal candidates for this diagnostic test.

Not a fit: Individuals who are not pregnant or do not have preeclampsia would not directly benefit from this specific diagnostic test.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this new test could provide a simple and sensitive way to diagnose preeclampsia earlier, potentially leading to better management and outcomes for pregnant individuals and their babies.

How similar studies have performed: Our team has previously identified these specific markers in urine using a more complex technique, and this project aims to develop a simpler, more accessible version of that detection method.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.