Understanding how fetal glucagon affects nutrient transfer in the placenta
Official title: Assessing the mechanism by which fetal glucagon inhibits placental nutrient transfer
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10995887 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called glucagon in unborn babies affects how nutrients are passed from the placenta to the baby, especially when there are tough conditions like low oxygen or acid levels, to help us understand how to better support fetal health during complicated pregnancies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32HD116431-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995887 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals experiencing complications such as intrauterine acidosis, hypoxia, or growth restriction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with uncomplicated pregnancies or those not experiencing issues related to nutrient transfer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how fetal glucagon influences the delivery of nutrients from the placenta to the fetus, particularly under challenging conditions like acidosis and hypoxia. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which elevated levels of fetal glucagon can alter blood flow and nutrient transfer, potentially impacting fetal growth. By using animal models, the researchers will explore how glucagon affects placental signaling and maternal hormone levels that regulate nutrient delivery. The findings could provide insights into how to better support fetal health in complicated pregnancies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing pregnancies affected by nutrient transfer issues, potentially enhancing fetal growth and health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms being studied are novel, previous research has indicated that fetal hormones play a significant role in regulating nutrient delivery, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tanner, Amelia Ruth — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Tanner, Amelia Ruth
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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.