Understanding how influenza affects pregnant women
Influenza pathogenesis in pregnancy
This study is looking at how the flu virus affects pregnant women and their babies, aiming to understand why some women and pregnancies have serious problems, so we can create better vaccines to keep them safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112294 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the influenza A virus impacts pregnant women, focusing on the immune responses of both the mother and the placenta. By using a nonhuman primate model, the study aims to identify the factors that lead to severe outcomes such as maternal death and stillbirth. The researchers will explore the role of specific immune cells and cytokines in the response to the virus, which could help in developing effective vaccines for pregnant women. The findings may provide insights into how to better protect this vulnerable population from influenza.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who are at risk of influenza infection and its complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have already been vaccinated against influenza may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of universal influenza vaccines specifically designed for pregnant women, improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study viral infections, but this specific approach focusing on pregnant women is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adams Waldorf, Kristina M. — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Adams Waldorf, Kristina M.
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 below.