How placental microRNAs affect insulin sensitivity during pregnancy
Official title: Placental miRNAs paracrine and endocrine roles in insulin sensitivity in pregnancy
Funded at Tufts Medical Center · NIH-10873280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules from the placenta might help control blood sugar and insulin levels in pregnant women, especially those at risk for gestational diabetes, to better understand their effects on both mom and baby’s health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $577,364 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD109206-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873280 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women, particularly those in their first or second trimester, who may be at risk for gestational diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who have already been diagnosed with gestational diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microRNAs produced by the placenta in regulating insulin sensitivity in pregnant women. It aims to understand how these molecules influence glucose metabolism and insulin signaling throughout pregnancy, particularly in relation to conditions like gestational diabetes. By studying the presence of these microRNAs in maternal circulation early in pregnancy, the research seeks to uncover their potential impact on maternal and fetal health. The approach includes analyzing the interaction between placental factors and maternal insulin sensitivity over the course of pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management of insulin sensitivity in pregnant women, potentially reducing the risk of gestational diabetes and its complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of placental factors in metabolic regulation during pregnancy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'tierney-Ginn, Perrie F — Tufts Medical Center
- Study coordinator: O'tierney-Ginn, Perrie F
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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.