How high altitude affects fetal growth through blood flow signaling

Novel roles of purinergic signaling for altitude-associated fetal growth restriction

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11171322

This study is looking at how being at high altitudes affects the growth of babies during pregnancy by checking the blood of moms and their babies to see how certain substances change, which could help us find ways to keep babies healthy in those conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11171322 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how high-altitude conditions impact fetal growth by examining the role of purinergic signaling in blood flow regulation. Researchers will analyze maternal and fetal blood samples to identify differences in nucleotide metabolites at high altitudes compared to lower altitudes. The study aims to understand how these metabolites influence blood vessel behavior, particularly in the uterus and placenta, which are crucial for fetal development. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential interventions to improve fetal health in high-altitude pregnancies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals living at high altitudes who may be at risk for fetal growth restriction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those living at low altitudes are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing fetal growth restriction in pregnancies at high altitudes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding metabolic responses to hypoxia can lead to significant insights in fetal health, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.