How inflammation during pregnancy affects a baby's gut health

Effect of fetal exposure to maternal inflammation on offspring Paneth cell development and homeostasis

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11128566

This project explores how inflammation in pregnant mothers might impact their babies' gut development and overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128566 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many babies born early are exposed to inflammation during pregnancy, which can affect their health. We know these infants often face higher risks of health problems, especially with their intestines. This project looks at how inflammation, specifically a molecule called IL-6, might harm important gut cells called Paneth cells in babies. By understanding these steps, we hope to find ways to protect babies from intestinal injury and other issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant for pregnant individuals experiencing inflammation and their infants, particularly those born prematurely.

Not a fit: Patients not experiencing maternal inflammation during pregnancy or those without related infant intestinal issues may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat intestinal problems in babies exposed to inflammation before birth.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from this team and published findings suggest a link between maternal inflammation and infant gut cell loss, indicating a promising direction for this work.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
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.