How prenatal folate affects blood stem cells and health later in life
Metabolic Programming of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Function by Prenatal Folate
This study is looking at how the amount of folate a mom gets during pregnancy can affect her baby's blood cell development and health later in life, helping us understand how good nutrition before birth can shape a person's immune system and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10910880 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the levels of folate during pregnancy influence the development and function of hematopoietic stem cells, which are crucial for producing blood cells. By examining the relationship between prenatal folate status and the risk of adult-onset diseases, the study aims to understand how early nutritional factors can shape immune function and overall health. The researchers will analyze the epigenetic changes that occur in response to folate levels and how these changes may affect individuals throughout their lives. This work builds on previous findings that early developmental conditions can impact health outcomes in adulthood.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant, particularly those with varying levels of folate intake.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or who have already completed their prenatal development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prenatal nutrition guidelines that enhance long-term health outcomes by optimizing blood stem cell function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that prenatal nutrition significantly impacts health outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krum, Brian — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Krum, Brian
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.