Investigating the vaginal ecosystem's role in preeclampsia
Official title: A large scale investigation of the vaginal ecosystem in preeclampsia
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10858963 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria and immune system in the vagina might affect the risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy, and it’s for expectant moms who want to help researchers learn more about this serious condition by providing vaginal swabs at different times during their pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $717,285 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD114715-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10858963 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals in their first or second trimester, particularly those at risk for developing preeclampsia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who have already been diagnosed with severe preeclampsia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the vaginal ecosystem, including its microbiome and immune components, to understand their potential influence on preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. By analyzing samples from a large, diverse pregnancy cohort, the study aims to identify specific microbial and molecular characteristics that may predict or contribute to the development of preeclampsia. Patients will provide vaginal swabs at multiple time points, allowing researchers to gather comprehensive data on the vaginal environment during early pregnancy. The goal is to uncover insights that could lead to better prediction, prevention, and management of preeclampsia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and management strategies for preeclampsia, enhancing maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the investigation of the vaginal ecosystem in relation to preeclampsia is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding other pregnancy-related complications.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Korem, Tal — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Korem, Tal
Related research
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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.