Investigating how SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy

Pathogenesis and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 In Utero Transmission - Immunologic and Virologic Evaluations

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11131615

This study is looking at how the COVID-19 virus might be passed from pregnant women to their babies before birth, and it aims to understand how this could affect the babies' health by checking their cord blood for antibodies and other important markers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11131615 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from pregnant women to their newborns, particularly how the virus may affect infants in utero. The study will analyze cord blood samples from newborns to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and assess the relationship between in utero infection and various health outcomes. By examining a large cohort of newborns, the research aims to identify factors that contribute to maternal-to-child transmission and the potential impact on infant health and development. This comprehensive approach includes evaluating inflammation markers and placental health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 or have been vaccinated against it.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have not been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostics and interventions for preventing in utero transmission of SARS-CoV-2, ultimately enhancing the health outcomes for newborns.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying success in understanding maternal-to-child transmission of viruses, but this specific approach to studying SARS-CoV-2 in utero is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.