Preventing preterm birth using a targeted therapy

Targeted Inhibition of Interleukin-1 beta to Prevent Preterm Birth

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10836480

This study is looking at a new medication called Rytvela to see if it can help prevent early labor and protect babies from harm by reducing inflammation during pregnancy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10836480 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of a novel drug, Rytvela, to inhibit a specific inflammatory response that can lead to preterm birth. By targeting interleukin-1 beta, a cytokine involved in inflammation, the study aims to prevent fetal injury and early labor. The approach involves testing the drug's efficacy and safety in a pregnant nonhuman primate model, which closely mimics human pregnancy. This model allows researchers to collect vital biological samples without disrupting the pregnancy, providing insights into how the drug works in real-time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals at risk of preterm birth due to intra-amniotic infection or inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those whose preterm birth is not related to inflammatory processes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the rates of preterm birth and improve neonatal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches targeting inflammatory pathways to prevent preterm birth, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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 2026-06-09 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.