How phospholipids affect placental function and fetal brain development.

Novel Roles for Phospholipids in Regulating Placental Function and in the Delivery of DHA to the Fetal Brain.

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-10861093

This study looks at how certain fats in the placenta help deliver important nutrients, like DHA, to a growing baby's brain, especially for moms facing challenges like diabetes or growth issues during pregnancy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10861093 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of phospholipids in the placenta and how they influence the delivery of essential fatty acids, particularly DHA, to the developing fetal brain. It aims to understand the mechanisms of lipid transfer from the mother to the fetus, especially in the context of pregnancy complications like intrauterine growth restriction and maternal diabetes. By studying the syncytiotrophoblast cells in the placenta, the research seeks to uncover how these cells manage lipid metabolism and transport, which is crucial for healthy fetal growth and brain development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those experiencing complications such as intrauterine growth restriction or maternal diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without complications related to fetal growth and development may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of pregnancy complications that affect fetal development.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of phospholipid roles in placental function are still being explored, there is emerging evidence suggesting that understanding lipid metabolism in the placenta could lead to significant advancements in maternal-fetal health.

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.