Protecting mothers' hearts during and after pregnancy
Protecting the maternal heart from pregnancy associated heart disease
This study is looking at how a gene called PTRH2 might help protect the hearts of new moms from a serious condition called postpartum cardiomyopathy, with the hope of finding new ways to keep them healthy after pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10767091 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates postpartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a serious heart condition that can develop in women during or after pregnancy, particularly in those with no prior heart issues. The study focuses on understanding the role of a specific gene, PTRH2, in protecting the heart from stress during pregnancy. By using genetically modified mice, researchers aim to uncover how this gene influences heart cell survival and may lead to new treatment options for PPCM. The ultimate goal is to identify mechanisms that can prevent heart failure in new mothers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women or new mothers who may be at risk for postpartum cardiomyopathy.
Not a fit: Patients who have a history of heart disease prior to pregnancy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing heart failure in women during and after pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: While postpartum cardiomyopathy is a relatively under-researched area, understanding the genetic factors involved in heart protection during pregnancy is a novel approach that has shown promise in preliminary studies.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Tulane University of Louisiana — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matter, Michelle L — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Matter, Michelle L
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.