Improving MRI methods to assess how well the placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients to the fetus
Official title: Development and validation of MR imaging methods for in vivo assessment of placental perfusion and oxygen transport
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11012821 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new MRI techniques to see how well the placenta is working to provide oxygen and nutrients to the baby, which is important for healthy pregnancies, especially for those at risk of complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $497,178 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD108833-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012821 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals who may be at risk for placental insufficiency or fetal growth restriction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with no risk factors for placental insufficiency are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced MRI techniques to noninvasively evaluate how effectively the placenta is functioning in supplying oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. By using a combination of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI and novel imaging methods, the researchers aim to create tools that can accurately diagnose placental insufficiency, which can lead to serious complications like fetal growth restriction. The study involves both animal models and clinical applications to ensure the methods are validated and effective for real-world use. Ultimately, this research seeks to enhance the understanding of placental health and improve outcomes for pregnancies at risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools for identifying placental issues, potentially preventing serious complications in pregnancies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for assessing placental function, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roberts, Victoria Hj — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Roberts, Victoria Hj
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.