Placenta Cell Differences in Normal and Trisomy 21 Pregnancies
Trophoblast progenitor heterogeneity and function in normal and Trisomy 21-affected placentae
This research explores how placenta cells develop differently in healthy pregnancies compared to those affected by Down Syndrome, aiming to improve our understanding of early pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121090 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The placenta is a crucial organ for a baby's growth, yet we don't fully understand how it works, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. This project uses advanced methods to look closely at the individual cells that make up the placenta, called trophoblasts, and how they develop. We are particularly interested in comparing these cells in healthy pregnancies with those affected by Trisomy 21, also known as Down Syndrome. By studying these differences, we hope to learn more about how the placenta supports fetal development and what might go wrong in certain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Pregnant individuals who choose to donate placental tissue after delivery, particularly those with pregnancies affected by Trisomy 21, could contribute to this research.
Not a fit: Patients not directly involved in donating samples or those whose pregnancies are not affected by placental development issues may not see direct benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of pregnancy complications related to placental development, potentially informing future diagnostic tools or interventions for conditions like Trisomy 21.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has successfully developed methods to study placenta cells in the lab, and this project builds upon those advancements to explore specific differences in Trisomy 21 pregnancies.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parast, Mana M — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Parast, Mana M
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 below.