Investigating how specific genes in the placenta affect fetal growth.

Development of approaches for inducible trophoblast-specific gene modulation: the role of trophoblast Lat1 in the regulation of placental function and fetal growth

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11010803

This study is looking at a protein called LAT1 in the placenta that helps deliver important nutrients to babies during pregnancy, and it aims to find out if adjusting the levels of this protein can help prevent problems with baby growth, which could lead to healthier pregnancies for moms and their little ones.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11010803 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, LAT1, in the placenta that is crucial for transporting essential nutrients to the developing fetus. By developing methods to control the expression of this protein at different stages of pregnancy in mice, the researchers aim to uncover how changes in LAT1 affect fetal growth and placental function. The study will explore whether restoring normal levels of LAT1 can prevent complications associated with abnormal fetal growth, such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or excessive growth. This could lead to new insights into managing pregnancy complications and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals experiencing complications related to fetal growth, such as IUGR or excessive fetal growth.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those whose pregnancies are progressing normally may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating fetal growth abnormalities during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting specific genes in animal models can yield significant insights into fetal development, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.