Understanding how aging affects the uterus's ability to adapt to pregnancy

Deciphering molecular mechanisms controlling age-associated uterine adaptabilityto pregnancy

NIH-funded research North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11015911

This study is looking at how getting older affects the uterus's ability to support a healthy pregnancy, especially focusing on a hormone called progesterone, to help understand why older women might face more pregnancy challenges and find ways to improve their chances of success.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015911 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how advanced maternal age impacts the uterus's ability to support pregnancy, particularly focusing on the role of a hormone receptor called progesterone receptor (PGR). The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to reduced responsiveness of the aging uterus to hormones, which may contribute to higher rates of pregnancy complications in older women. By using mouse models that mimic aging, the researchers will explore how changes in uterine biology affect reproductive outcomes. This could provide insights into potential interventions to improve pregnancy success in older women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women aged 35 and older who are considering pregnancy or experiencing difficulties related to advanced maternal age.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 35 or those without any reproductive health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing reproductive health and reducing pregnancy complications in older women.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding hormonal influences on reproductive aging, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, 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.