Creating a model of the human placenta using stem cells
Official title: Stem Cell-Derived Microfluidic Placenta Organoids
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-11047076 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a tiny model of the human placenta using special stem cells to help us learn more about how the placenta develops and works during early pregnancy, which could help us understand and prevent pregnancy complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $411,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD114581-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047076 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those experiencing complications related to placentation in the first trimester.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those in later stages of pregnancy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a microfluidic model of the human placenta using human trophoblast stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. By simulating the conditions of the first trimester, the study aims to better understand how the placenta forms and functions, which is crucial for fetal development. The researchers will explore how these stem cells can self-organize into structures that mimic the placenta, potentially leading to insights into pregnancy complications. This innovative approach addresses the limitations of studying human placental development due to ethical and practical constraints.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of pregnancy complications related to placental development.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using organoid models have shown promise in other areas of research, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Yi — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Yi
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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.