Understanding how gene changes affect uterine fibroid risk in women of African ancestry
Official title: Evaluating the impact of altered gene expression on uterine fibroid risk in African ancestry populations
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11175350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genetics might affect the chances of developing uterine fibroids, especially in women of African descent, to help find better ways to prevent and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $684,601 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD112169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11175350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Black women, especially those with a family history of uterine fibroids or who have been diagnosed with fibroids themselves.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as women of African ancestry or who do not have a history of uterine fibroids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between genetic factors and the risk of developing uterine fibroids, particularly in women of African ancestry. It aims to explore how variations in gene expression contribute to the higher prevalence of fibroids among Black women compared to their White counterparts. By utilizing advanced techniques like RNA sequencing, the study will analyze tissue samples from Nigerian women and compare them to those from African American women to uncover the biological mechanisms behind fibroid development. The goal is to provide insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for uterine fibroids.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of uterine fibroids, particularly for women of African descent.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to fibroid risk, but this specific approach focusing on African ancestry is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Velez Edwards, Digna R — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Velez Edwards, Digna R
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.