How previous uterine scars lead to placenta accreta
Dysregulation of Endometrial Invasibility Proximal to Uterine Scar as a Mechanism of Placenta Accreta
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT · NIH-11319830
Researchers are looking at how uterine scars from prior cesarean deliveries change the uterus so the placenta can grow in too deeply, causing placenta accreta in pregnant people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (FARMINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11319830 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research looks at why the placenta sometimes grows too deeply into the uterus near a prior cesarean scar, causing placenta accreta. Scientists will examine how the scar changes the local tissue mechanics and immune signals, and how those changes turn uterine stromal cells into an inflammatory state that attracts placental cells. They will use lab models, tissue samples, and biomechanical testing guided by an ELI (Evolved Levels of Invasability) framework to track the cellular and molecular signals that promote over‑invasion. The team aims to pinpoint specific tissue cues that could be targeted for future tests or treatments to prevent or manage accreta.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be pregnant people with a history of cesarean or other uterine surgery, or those diagnosed with placenta accreta who can provide tissue samples or clinical information at delivery.
Not a fit: People needing immediate treatments during an ongoing complicated pregnancy or those seeking direct, immediate therapy likely will not benefit directly from this basic research during their current pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests or therapies that identify people at higher risk of placenta accreta or reduce harmful placental invasion.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies and preliminary data support roles for scar-related changes and stromal signaling in abnormal placental invasion, but this detailed biomechanical mechanism remains relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
FARMINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT — FARMINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KSHITIZ, FNU — UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT
- Study coordinator: KSHITIZ, FNU
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.