Creating models to study early pregnancy development
Generating in vitro models of trophectoderm formation
This study is working on creating lab models to better understand how embryos attach during early pregnancy, which could help us learn more about issues like miscarriage and slow fetal growth, using stem cells from humans and monkeys.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10468196 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing in vitro models of the trophectoderm, which is crucial for the early stages of human pregnancy. By using pluripotent stem cells from humans and nonhuman primates, the researchers aim to create accurate models that can help understand the molecular mechanisms of embryo implantation. This approach allows for detailed studies that are not possible with human embryos due to ethical constraints. The findings could provide insights into complications such as miscarriage and fetal growth restriction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing recurrent miscarriages or complications related to early pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently facing pregnancy complications or those who are not planning to conceive may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of pregnancy complications like miscarriage and fetal growth restriction.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on embryo implantation, this approach using nonhuman primate models is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Raleigh, United States
- North Carolina State University Raleigh — Raleigh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Balaji M — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Rao, Balaji M
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.