Finding genetic causes of repeated pregnancy loss

Large scale genome sequencing and integrative analyses to define genomic predictors of recurrent pregnancy loss

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11228772

This project uses whole-genome sequencing of parents and pregnancy tissue to find genetic changes that may explain repeated miscarriages for people who have had multiple pregnancy losses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11228772 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

If you and your partner have had multiple unexplained pregnancy losses, the team will enroll you and try to collect DNA from both parents and the pregnancy to form a trio. They will perform whole-genome sequencing and use advanced methods to detect rare coding, noncoding, and structural genetic changes that past studies often missed. The study also includes a small pilot RNA-sequencing effort to see if gene activity measurements help find causes. By combining detailed clinical information with these genomic data, researchers hope to map genes and chromosome regions needed for a successful pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People who have experienced multiple unexplained pregnancy losses and who can provide DNA from themselves, their partner, and the pregnancy tissue are the ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People whose pregnancy losses have a known non-genetic cause or already-identified chromosomal diagnosis, or those unable to provide pregnancy samples, may not benefit directly from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide clearer genetic explanations for recurrent pregnancy loss, improve counseling about future pregnancy risks, and point toward more personalized reproductive options.

How similar studies have performed: Previous smaller studies suggested genetic contributions to recurrent loss but were limited, and this large trio-based whole-genome approach is newer and more comprehensive.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.