Testing a new approach to prevent fetal growth restriction
Official title: Development of an animal model to test HDAC6 as a drug target to reduce and/or prevent fetal growth restriction
Funded at University of Memphis · NIH-10785825 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called MAP3K4 helps babies grow properly during pregnancy, and it’s exploring whether another protein, HDAC6, can be targeted to help improve growth when things go wrong, with the hope of finding new ways to support healthy pregnancies for those facing growth challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Memphis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $138,455 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HD113870-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10785825 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals at risk of fetal growth restriction or those with a history of complications related to fetal growth.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those whose pregnancies are not at risk for fetal growth restriction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, MAP3K4, in promoting healthy fetal growth and how its dysfunction can lead to fetal growth restriction (FGR). By using an animal model, the researchers aim to understand the molecular mechanisms behind FGR and explore the potential of targeting another protein, HDAC6, to improve fetal and placental growth. The study will involve examining the effects of manipulating these proteins in mice to identify new therapeutic strategies for preventing FGR. If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve outcomes for pregnancies affected by FGR.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options to prevent fetal growth restriction, potentially improving neonatal health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting molecular mechanisms related to fetal growth, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Memphis
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abell, Amy N — University of Memphis
- Study coordinator: Abell, Amy N
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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.