Investigating arterial stiffness in mothers and infants to prevent heart disease

Arterial stiffness in mother/infant dyads: Life course approach to prevent cardiovascular disease

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10908540

This study is looking at how the stiffness of blood vessels in pregnant women and their babies can help us understand the risk of heart problems later on, especially for non-Hispanic Black and Latina families, so we can find better ways to keep both moms and their kids healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908540 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how arterial stiffness in mothers and their infants can indicate the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). By examining pregnant women and their children, the study aims to identify risk factors that contribute to CVD, particularly in non-Hispanic Black and Latina populations who are at higher risk. The research will involve measuring central pulse wave velocity, a key indicator of vascular health, and will track participants for three years postpartum to assess ongoing risk. The goal is to develop better healthcare practices that can reduce CVD risk for both mothers and their children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women, particularly those who are healthy or have medical complications, and their infants.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have children may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease in women and their children.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in identifying cardiovascular risks during pregnancy, making this approach promising for further advancements.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.