NIH-funded research R01 grant

How fetal glucagon affects nutrient delivery and growth during pregnancy

Official title: Fetal glucagon links fetal metabolism with uterine blood flow and placental nutrient transfer by inhibiting placental lactogen secretion

Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11011357 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a hormone called glucagon affects the growth of babies in the womb by influencing blood flow and nutrient delivery from the placenta, which could help us understand and manage pregnancy complications better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startApril 13, 2023
Project endJanuary 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$625,508
NIH project number5R01HD111557-03
Project IDNIH-11011357 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals experiencing complications that may affect fetal growth.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not pregnant or those with stable pregnancies without complications may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of fetal glucagon in regulating fetal growth by affecting uterine blood flow and placental nutrient transfer. The study aims to uncover how fetal glucagon inhibits the secretion of placental lactogen, which is crucial for nutrient delivery to the fetus. By using animal models, the researchers will measure changes in blood flow, nutrient uptake, and fetal growth in response to varying levels of glucagon. This could lead to a better understanding of complications during pregnancy and how to manage them effectively.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing fetal growth disorders during pregnancy.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding hormonal regulation can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Colorado Denver
    Aurora, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rozance, Paul Joseph — University of Colorado Denver
  • Study coordinator: Rozance, Paul Joseph

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.