How environmental chemicals called PFAS make pregnant people more vulnerable to infections that cause early birth
PFAS increases susceptibility to infection-mediated PTB
['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11182468
This project explores how common environmental chemicals called PFAS might make pregnant people more vulnerable to infections that can lead to early birth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11182468 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Preterm birth, or early birth, affects many babies globally and can lead to health challenges later in life. A significant number of these early births are linked to infections during pregnancy, though not every infection causes this problem. Our bodies have natural defenses, and the placenta plays a key role by producing protective signals that help fight off infections. This project aims to understand if common environmental chemicals called PFAS might weaken the placenta's ability to protect against infections, potentially increasing the risk of early birth. By understanding this connection, we hope to find new ways to prevent preterm birth caused by infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Pregnant individuals, especially those exposed to environmental chemicals like PFAS, could be ideal candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for preterm birth may not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand how environmental chemicals contribute to preterm birth, potentially leading to new ways to protect pregnant people and their babies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that certain environmental pollutants can weaken the immune system and that a specific protein in the placenta is crucial for protection against infection-related early birth.
Where this research is happening
DETROIT, UNITED STATES
- WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY — DETROIT, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PETRIELLO, MICHAEL CURTIS — WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PETRIELLO, MICHAEL CURTIS
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.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections