Investigating the role of vaginal microbiome in preterm birth

A large scale investigation of the vaginal metagenome and metabolome and their role in spontaneous preterm birth

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11178856

This study is looking at how the bacteria in the vagina might affect the risk of early birth, and it involves pregnant women who can help by sharing samples to improve our understanding of this important health issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11178856 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how the vaginal microbiome and its metabolites may contribute to spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB). By analyzing samples from a large cohort of pregnant women, the study aims to identify specific microbial patterns that could predict the risk of sPTB. The research utilizes advanced sequencing techniques to profile the vaginal microbiome at different stages of pregnancy, providing insights into its potential causal relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Patients may be involved in providing samples and contributing to a better understanding of this significant health issue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are pregnant women at various stages of their pregnancy, particularly those at risk for spontaneous preterm birth.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have had previous preterm births due to non-microbiome related factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification and prevention strategies for spontaneous preterm birth, improving neonatal outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a potential link between the vaginal microbiome and pregnancy outcomes, but this study aims to provide a more comprehensive analysis using a larger sample size.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.