How maternal cells influence the development of the fetal immune system
Education of the fetal immune system by inherited maternal cells
This study is looking at how a mother's immune cells, which can pass to her baby during pregnancy, help shape the baby's immune system, especially when the mother has health conditions like HIV, to find ways to improve the health of newborns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877030 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how maternal immune cells, which can be transferred to the fetus during pregnancy, affect the development of the fetal immune system. It focuses on understanding the role of these maternal cells in shaping the immune responses of the fetus, particularly in the context of maternal health conditions like HIV. By analyzing blood samples from pregnant individuals and their infants, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which maternal cells educate fetal immune cells, potentially leading to improved health outcomes for newborns.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals, especially those with HIV or other immune-related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those whose pregnancies are not affected by maternal health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for enhancing fetal immune development, particularly in at-risk populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that maternal health significantly impacts fetal immune development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrington, Whitney Elizabeth — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Harrington, Whitney Elizabeth
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.