Manipulating genes in the placenta during pregnancy
Official title: In Utero Trophoblast Transgenesis
Funded at Wright State University · NIH-11055396 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to change genes in the placenta while it's still in the womb, which could help us learn more about how the placenta works and improve treatments for issues related to it, all without needing surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wright State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dayton, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $172,479 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD112763-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055396 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or those planning to conceive who may be at risk for placental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with no history of placental issues may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method for altering genes in the placenta while it is still in the womb. By using a technique called in utero trophoblast transgenesis, researchers aim to introduce specific genes into the placenta of pregnant animals without the need for surgery. This approach allows for a better understanding of how the placenta develops and functions, which is crucial for the health of the developing fetus. The study will utilize lentiviral infection to achieve targeted gene expression, potentially leading to advancements in treating placental-related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of conditions related to placental dysfunction, benefiting both mothers and their babies.
How similar studies have gone: While gene manipulation in placental research has been explored, this specific in utero approach is novel and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Wright State University
Dayton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Thomas L — Wright State University
- Study coordinator: Brown, Thomas L
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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.