The effects of excess testosterone during pregnancy on heart health

Gestational Hyperandrogenism in Cardiovascular Programming

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10705060

This study looks at how being exposed to high levels of testosterone before birth might impact heart health as we grow up, especially in terms of high blood pressure and heart disease, and it aims to find ways to help prevent these issues for both men and women.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10705060 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to high levels of testosterone in the womb affects heart health later in life. It focuses on understanding how this prenatal environment can lead to conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease in adulthood. By studying a sheep model, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and how they differ between males and females. The goal is to develop targeted prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases linked to prenatal hormone exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who were exposed to high levels of testosterone in utero, particularly those with conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to excess testosterone during fetal development are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases in individuals exposed to excess testosterone during fetal development.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that prenatal hormone exposure can significantly impact long-term health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 2026-06-13 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.