Investigating how certain microRNAs affect fetal inflammation during pregnancy
Official title: Role of TLR7/8-activating microRNAs in fetal inflammatory response syndrome
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11032217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how infections in pregnant women might cause inflammation in their babies, and it aims to find out how certain tiny molecules in the body can affect the baby's immune system and health, which could help prevent problems like preterm birth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $132,779 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HD116981-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals at risk of preterm birth or those experiencing chorioamnionitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with no history of preterm birth or related complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how maternal infections can lead to inflammation in the fetus, particularly through the activation of specific microRNAs that interact with immune receptors. By studying the role of these microRNAs in fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS), the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind fetal immune activation and its potential long-term health impacts. The approach includes analyzing exosomes from amniotic fluid and fetal membranes to identify inflammatory markers and their effects on fetal development. This could provide insights into preventing complications associated with preterm birth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing fetal inflammation and improving outcomes for preterm infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fetal inflammatory responses, but the specific role of TLR7/8-activating microRNAs is a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Georges, Hanah M — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Georges, Hanah M
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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.