How exposure to air pollution affects fetal growth and health
Microvascular mechanisms of growth restriction after environmental toxicant exposure
This study looks at how breathing in tiny harmful particles from the environment might affect blood flow and nutrient delivery to a developing baby during pregnancy, with the goal of finding ways to help improve outcomes for moms and their babies when these issues arise.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10976438 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to environmental toxicants, specifically fine particulate matter, impacts blood flow and nutrient delivery to the fetus during pregnancy. By studying laboratory rodent models, the researchers aim to understand the mechanisms that lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and miscarriage. The study focuses on how maternal inhalation of certain aerosols disrupts blood vessel function, which is crucial for fetal development. The findings could help identify potential treatments to improve outcomes for pregnancies affected by these environmental factors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who have been exposed to air pollution and are at risk for complications such as IUGR.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have no history of exposure to environmental toxicants may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing IUGR and improving fetal health in pregnant women exposed to air pollution.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that environmental factors can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stapleton, Phoebe — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Stapleton, Phoebe
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.