Improving how we predict baby's growth using placenta scans
A placenta-based strategy for improved clinical prediction of fetal growth trajectory using automated image analysis of placental morphology and vascularity
This project aims to create better ultrasound tools to help doctors identify babies who might not be growing well during pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103246 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many babies who aren't growing properly in the womb are not identified before birth, which can lead to serious health problems. The placenta is vital for a baby's growth, but currently, doctors don't have easy ways to check its health during pregnancy. This work focuses on developing new, automated 3D ultrasound tools to measure the placenta's size, shape, and blood flow. These tools will help doctors better understand placental development and predict if a baby is at risk for growth issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Pregnant individuals whose babies may be at risk for or are suspected of having fetal growth restriction would be ideal candidates for future applications of this technology.
Not a fit: Patients not currently pregnant or those without concerns about fetal growth would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to earlier detection of fetal growth problems, allowing doctors to intervene sooner and improve health outcomes for babies.
How similar studies have performed: While 3D ultrasound has shown associations between placental features and outcomes, this project aims to develop novel automated tools for practical clinical use.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oguz, Ipek — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Oguz, Ipek
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.