How exercise during pregnancy affects the metabolism of babies born to obese mothers

Effect of Maternal Exercise in Women with Obesity on Offspring Mesenchymal Stem Cell Metabolism

NIH-funded research East Carolina University · NIH-11031945

This study is looking at how different types of exercise during pregnancy can help improve the health of babies born to moms with obesity by examining the stem cells from their umbilical cords.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEast Carolina University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Greenville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11031945 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of maternal exercise on the metabolism of mesenchymal stem cells in infants born to women with obesity. It focuses on how different types of exercise, particularly aerobic and resistance training, during pregnancy can influence the health and metabolic profiles of newborns. By analyzing stem cells derived from umbilical cords, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms behind the benefits of maternal exercise on infant health. The research involves randomizing pregnant women with obesity into different exercise groups to assess the outcomes on their infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women with obesity who are sedentary and willing to participate in an exercise program.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have obesity may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for infants born to obese mothers, potentially reducing the risk of obesity and related health issues later in life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes from maternal exercise on infant health, indicating that this approach has potential based on existing evidence.

Where this research is happening

Greenville, 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.