Understanding and preventing stillbirth through precision medicine

Precision medicine approaches to understand and prevent stillbirth

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11101719

This study is looking into why stillbirth happens and how we can prevent it, especially for groups that are more affected, like non-Hispanic Black, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Pacific Islander families, and it involves patients in tests to help us learn more about their specific risks.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101719 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the causes and prevention of stillbirth, which affects 1 in 160 pregnancies in the U.S. The study focuses on understanding the disparities in stillbirth rates among different populations, particularly non-Hispanic Black, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Pacific Islander individuals. By utilizing advanced non-invasive technologies and a multi-disciplinary approach, the research aims to identify the underlying mechanisms of placental dysfunction and improve preventative measures. Patients will be involved in a comprehensive evaluation that includes placental pathology, fetal autopsy, and genetic testing to better understand their individual risks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals, particularly those from populations with higher stillbirth rates, such as non-Hispanic Black, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Pacific Islander individuals.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently pregnant or those who do not belong to the higher-risk populations may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing stillbirth and better outcomes for at-risk pregnancies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using precision medicine approaches to address pregnancy-related outcomes, but this specific focus on stillbirth prevention is relatively novel.

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 2026-06-13 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.