Understanding how DNA changes may affect very early preterm birth.
Official title: Evaluating the role of DNA methylation changes in very early preterm birth
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-10986352 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA might be linked to very early preterm births, and it invites pregnant individuals to share samples and talk about their experiences to help researchers learn more about this important issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $430,031 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD113774-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986352 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals at risk of very early preterm birth or those who have experienced it in previous pregnancies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who have had full-term pregnancies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA methylation changes in the occurrence of very early preterm births. By analyzing biological samples from pregnant individuals, the study aims to identify specific DNA modifications that may contribute to premature labor. The approach involves collecting and examining genetic data to understand how these changes correlate with gestational age and other factors. Patients may be asked to provide samples and participate in discussions about their pregnancy experiences to help researchers gather valuable insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for very early preterm births.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors associated with preterm birth, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Juvinao-Quintero, Diana L. — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Juvinao-Quintero, Diana L.
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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.