Investigating the link between preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease in women

Cardiovascular disease, preeclampsia, and microchimerism

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10874422

This study is looking at how having preeclampsia during pregnancy might raise the chances of heart problems for women later on, and it’s exploring how tiny cells from the baby that stay in the mother’s body could play a role in this, all to help find better ways to detect these cells and improve heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874422 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication, may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life for women. It focuses on the role of fetal microchimerism, where fetal cells persist in the mother's body long after pregnancy, potentially influencing health outcomes. The study aims to improve detection methods for these fetal cells and understand their impact on cardiovascular health. By examining the relationship between preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease, the research seeks to uncover underlying mechanisms that could inform future prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have had preeclampsia during pregnancy and are at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced preeclampsia or do not have cardiovascular disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women who have experienced preeclampsia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a connection between pregnancy complications and long-term health risks, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Conditions Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular DiseaseAutoimmune Diseases
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.