Investigating how Zika virus is transmitted from mothers to babies in Nicaragua

Understanding Maternal-Fetal Zika Virus Transmission and its Complications in Nicaragua

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10457272

This study is looking at how the Zika virus can be passed from pregnant women to their babies in Nicaragua, and it aims to learn more about the risks involved and how it affects the babies' health and development over time.

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-10457272 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the Zika virus can be passed from pregnant women to their unborn children, particularly in Nicaragua where the virus is prevalent. By analyzing blood samples collected during pregnancy and at delivery, the study aims to identify the rates and risk factors associated with this transmission. Additionally, it will explore the immune responses of infants exposed to the virus and track their neurodevelopmental outcomes over time. This comprehensive approach seeks to improve diagnostic methods and enhance our understanding of the virus's impact on fetal health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women in Nicaragua who may be exposed to the Zika virus.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not in areas affected by the Zika virus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for Zika virus-related complications in newborns.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding maternal-fetal transmission of viruses can lead to significant advancements in public health strategies, indicating potential success for this approach.

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 2026-06-13 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.