NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

Effects of plastic particles on blood vessels and fetal growth during pregnancy

Official title: Uteroplacental Vasculature and Fetal Growth after Plastic Particle Exposure

Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11002263 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how tiny plastic particles might affect the blood vessels in the placenta and how that could impact the growth of a baby during pregnancy, helping us learn more about keeping both moms and their little ones healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endDecember 31, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$44,187
NIH project number5F31ES035256-02
Project IDNIH-11002263 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women exposed to environmental pollutants, particularly those concerned about the effects of plastic particles.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not pregnant or those without exposure to environmental pollutants may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to plastic particles affects the blood vessels in the placenta and the growth of the fetus. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which these particles impair the functionality of the uteroplacental vasculature, which is crucial for nutrient and oxygen exchange between the mother and fetus. By studying pregnant animals, the research aims to uncover the impact of particulate matter on placental development and fetal health, potentially leading to better understanding and prevention of fetal growth restrictions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for protecting fetal health and development from environmental pollutants.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental pollutants can adversely affect fetal development, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and critical.

Where this research is happening

  • Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
    Newark, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Cary, Chelsea — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
  • Study coordinator: Cary, Chelsea

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.