Early pregnancy risk test using cervical (Pap-smear) fluid
Assay development for the assessment of pregnancy risks in early pregnancy
This project uses a Pap-smear-like cervical sample to look for markers in the first trimester that might signal risks like preeclampsia or poor fetal growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Akna Health LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11069534 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I join, a small cervical sample will be taken in the clinic using the same simple procedure as a Pap smear. Researchers will look for placenta-derived (trophoblast) biomarkers in that fluid and use machine learning on an initial group of 100 people and a larger group of 500 to find a reliable marker panel. The team is also making specific antibodies to improve the test and adapting the method so it can work on common lab machines like flow cytometers. Participation involves sample collection and routine pregnancy follow-up so researchers can compare early markers to pregnancy outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Pregnant people in their first trimester who are willing to provide a cervical sample and allow pregnancy follow-up would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who are not pregnant, are past the first trimester, or already have a confirmed diagnosis that the test would not change may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the test could spot high-risk pregnancies earlier in the first trimester so people can get closer monitoring or earlier treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Early pilot data were promising, but this larger validation is needed to confirm the test works reliably in more people.
Where this research is happening
Grand Rapids, United States
- Akna Health LLC — Grand Rapids, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Drewlo, Sascha — Akna Health LLC
- Study coordinator: Drewlo, Sascha
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.