Investigating how X chromosome gene expression affects pregnancy and fetal development
Official title: X chromosome dosage compensation and the regulation of the feto-maternal interface
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11137811 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes on the X chromosomes work during pregnancy and how problems with this process might affect the health of both the baby and the mother, helping to find out more about potential issues that could arise during development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $550,091 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD115349-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137811 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant, particularly those with a family history of developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or do not plan to become pregnant may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the regulation of gene expression on the X chromosomes during the development of embryos and the placenta. It focuses on understanding how disruptions in this regulation can impact the feto-maternal interface, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. The study examines two key processes: X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) and X-chromosome upregulation (XCU), which help balance gene expression between X chromosomes and autosomes. By studying these mechanisms, researchers aim to uncover the underlying causes of potential developmental disorders related to pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of pregnancy complications linked to X chromosome dosage issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding X chromosome regulation, but this specific approach to the feto-maternal interface is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Plath, Kathrin — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Plath, Kathrin
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.