Testing for early pregnancy risks using cervical biomarkers
Official title: Point-of-care testing for perinatal risks in early pregnancy
Funded at Akna Health LLC · NIH-10920240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special markers from the placenta in early pregnancy to help identify women who might be at risk for complications like miscarriage or high blood pressure, so that doctors can provide better care for both moms and their babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Akna Health LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | September 2, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $351,600 |
| NIH project number | 1R43EB035958-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10920240 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women in their first trimester who are classified as high-risk due to various factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those in their second trimester or later may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of placental biomarkers found in the cervical canal during the first trimester to identify high-risk pregnancies. By collecting and analyzing cervical and blood samples from 200 women, the study aims to establish a connection between these biomarkers and potential complications such as fetal growth restriction, miscarriage, or preeclampsia. The goal is to develop a diagnostic tool that allows for earlier interventions, improving outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of high-risk pregnancies, allowing for timely medical interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promise in using biomarkers for early detection of pregnancy complications, indicating a potential for success in this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Akna Health LLC
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Drewlo, Sascha — Akna Health LLC
- Study coordinator: Drewlo, Sascha
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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.