GATA proteins and how they shape placenta cells
GATA Factor Function in Trophoblast
Researchers are looking at how GATA proteins control placenta cells that support pregnancy, to better understand problems like preeclampsia and early pregnancy loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11354015 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on two GATA proteins (GATA2 and GATA3) that help specialized placenta cells form and invade the uterus to support the fetus. Scientists will use mutant rats and human trophoblast stem cells in the lab and apply modern molecular tools (including CUT&RUN) to map where these proteins bind DNA and which genes they turn on. By comparing normal and defective GATA function, the team will study effects on nutrient exchange cells and those that remodel maternal blood vessels. The work aims to connect molecular changes with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by placenta-related pregnancy problems—such as those with prior preeclampsia, early pregnancy loss, or fetal growth restriction—or those willing to donate pregnancy tissue or samples for research would be most relevant to future related studies.
Not a fit: People without placenta-related issues (for example, non-pregnant individuals with no history of pregnancy complications) are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to predict, prevent, or treat placental disorders like preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and cell studies have shown GATA2/3 are important for trophoblast function, but applying that knowledge to human treatments remains early and largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- University of Kansas Medical Center — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paul, Soumen — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Paul, Soumen
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 below.