Epigenetic clues to preeclampsia in pregnancy
Official title: Epigenetic Contributions to Preeclampsia
Funded at University of Mississippi Med Ctr · NIH-11545399 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant explores how epigenetic changes and paternal factors may contribute to preeclampsia, a condition that can affect pregnancy health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jackson, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $150,000 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM121334-10 |
| Project ID | NIH-11545399 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Pregnant individuals at risk for preeclampsia, and couples interested in contributing biological samples or data.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without risk factors or pregnancy may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
If funded, researchers at the University of Mississippi Medical Center will study how epigenetic changes in sperm and placental tissue might influence the development of preeclampsia. The project will use human-focused data and relevant animal models to understand how DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, and chromosomal changes relate to placental function and blood pressure during pregnancy. By examining these factors, the team hopes to identify potential early indicators and pathways for prevention or treatment that could benefit pregnant people at risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could lead to better prediction and prevention of preeclampsia, improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has linked epigenetic changes and paternal health to pregnancy outcomes, suggesting this approach is promising but still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Mississippi Med Ctr
Jackson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Ashley C. — University of Mississippi Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Ashley C.
Related research
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Folate Receptor Beta and its Role in Preeclampsia
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Understanding how genes and environment interact to cause preeclampsia and later high blood pressure in mothers
This project looks at why some pregnancies develop preeclampsia and how it relates to long-term blood pressure and heart health in mothers.
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.