Predicting Preterm Birth with Longitudinal Multi-Omics Data
Official title: Analysis of Longitudinal Multi-Omics Data for Prediction of Preterm Birth
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11440408 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new, patient-friendly approach uses time-aware omics data from pregnancy to better predict preterm birth and uncover underlying biology.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD123157-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11440408 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Pregnant individuals whose pregnancies are being monitored and who have biological samples collected for omics analyses.
✕Less likely to help
Pregnancies without available longitudinal omics data or those not at risk for preterm birth may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project develops new statistical tools to combine multiple kinds of biological data collected over time during pregnancy. It aims to create a model that predicts risk of preterm birth using dynamic omics features, while also revealing potential biological pathways involved. The work includes creating user-friendly open-source software so researchers can apply the methods to other pregnancy cohorts and improve future care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could enable earlier identification of pregnancies at risk for preterm birth and guide targeted interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous cross-sectional studies have found limited success; this project advances dynamic, longitudinal approaches which are promising but novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Lei — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Lei
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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.