How obesity before pregnancy affects the immune system during pregnancy
Dysregulation of maternal immunity during pregnancy by pregravid obesity
This study looks at how being overweight before pregnancy affects the immune system during pregnancy, especially in women who might face complications like pre-eclampsia or infections, to help us understand how to support healthier pregnancies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907402 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how obesity prior to pregnancy alters the immune system's response during pregnancy, which is crucial for a healthy gestation. It focuses on understanding the changes in immune cell behavior, particularly monocytes and macrophages, in obese pregnant women and how these changes may lead to complications such as pre-eclampsia and increased infection risk. The study employs a multi-dimensional approach to analyze immune responses at different stages of pregnancy, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanisms of immune dysregulation caused by obesity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women with a pregravid body mass index (BMI) greater than 30.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or have a normal BMI may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for pregnant women with obesity, potentially reducing complications and improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that obesity can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Messaoudi, Ilhem — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Messaoudi, Ilhem
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.