Monitoring pregnancy health using placental biomarkers from blood samples

Non-invasive monitoring of gestational health via placental miRNA biomarkers using TRAP technology

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10754097

This study is looking at how we can keep an eye on pregnancy health by checking certain markers in the placenta through blood tests, helping to spot potential problems like preterm birth early on, so that moms and babies can have better care and outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-10754097 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to monitor the health of pregnancies by analyzing specific biomarkers found in the placenta through blood samples. It focuses on identifying issues like preterm birth and intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) early in gestation, which can significantly affect maternal and neonatal health. By utilizing advanced technology to analyze these biomarkers, the research aims to provide a non-invasive method for detecting placental dysfunction. This approach could lead to better management of pregnancy complications and improved outcomes for mothers and babies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who may be at risk for complications such as preterm birth or IUGR.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with pregnancies that are already deemed high-risk and under close medical supervision may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and intervention for serious pregnancy complications, ultimately improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomarkers for monitoring pregnancy health, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, 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.