Examining how blood vessels develop in the placenta using ultrasound
Official title: Assessment of placenta vascularization development using contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10948597 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blood vessels in the placenta change during pregnancy to help support the growing baby, using a special ultrasound to see these changes without any discomfort, and it aims to help us better understand issues like preeclampsia that can affect both moms and babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD115868-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948597 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals at risk for complications such as preeclampsia or fetal growth restriction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with no history of placental complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in blood vessel development within the placenta during pregnancy, focusing on how these vessels adapt to increase blood flow. By utilizing contrast-enhanced ultrasound, the study aims to create a non-invasive method to visualize and assess the remodeling of spiral arteries and other key blood vessels in real-time. Understanding these processes is crucial for identifying complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction, which can affect maternal and fetal health. The research seeks to improve our knowledge of placental vascularization and its implications for pregnancy outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better monitoring and management of pregnancy complications related to placental blood flow.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using ultrasound techniques for assessing vascular changes, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nam, Kibo — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Nam, Kibo
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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.