How benzene exposure during pregnancy affects fetal immune system development

Impact of benzene-induced MIA on fetal T cell development

NIH-funded research Wayne State University · NIH-11052651

This study is looking at how being around certain chemicals, like benzene, while pregnant might affect your baby's immune system and health, especially when it comes to breathing problems later on.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWayne State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Detroit, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052651 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to volatile organic compounds, particularly benzene, during pregnancy influences the development of the fetal immune system. It aims to understand the signaling pathways affected by this exposure, which may lead to inflammation in the placenta and impact the immune response of the fetus. By studying these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover how maternal exposure to these compounds could affect children's health outcomes, particularly regarding respiratory infections and asthma. The study will involve analyzing the effects of maternal exposure on both placental and fetal inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who have been exposed to benzene or other volatile organic compounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have not been exposed to relevant environmental pollutants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for respiratory issues and other health problems in children exposed to harmful environmental factors during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that environmental exposures during pregnancy can significantly impact fetal development, suggesting that this study's approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Detroit, 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 2026-06-15 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.