Effects of HIV and antiretroviral exposure during pregnancy on the placenta and birth weight
Official title: Impact of in utero HIV and antiretroviral exposure on the placenta and birth weight
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11085419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how taking HIV medications during pregnancy affects the placenta and the weight of newborns, helping moms and doctors understand the safety of these treatments for both mothers and their babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 6, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $244,328 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI184169-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women living with HIV who are receiving antiretroviral therapy, as well as their newborns.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not exposed to antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV exposure during pregnancy affect the placenta and the birth weight of infants. By measuring drug levels in both the mothers' blood and their children's hair, the study aims to establish a clearer understanding of the impact of these medications on fetal development. The findings will help inform healthcare providers and pregnant women about the risks and benefits of using ART during pregnancy. This research addresses a critical gap in knowledge regarding the safety of antiretrovirals for both mothers and their babies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved guidelines for the use of antiretroviral therapy in pregnant women, enhancing the health outcomes for both mothers and their infants.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited research on this specific topic, the innovative approach of measuring drug levels in both mothers and infants is relatively novel and could provide valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bebell, Lisa M — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Bebell, Lisa 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.