Understanding how leptin affects preeclampsia during pregnancy

Regulation and role of leptin in preeclampsia

NIH-funded research Augusta University · NIH-11075242

This study is looking at how a hormone called leptin might affect the health of pregnant women and their babies when preeclampsia occurs, with the goal of finding new ways to help manage this serious condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAugusta University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Augusta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075242 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of leptin, a hormone that regulates energy balance, in the development of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure. Using a mouse model, the study examines how increased levels of leptin may contribute to adverse outcomes for both mothers and their babies. The researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which leptin influences cardiovascular health and fetal development in preeclampsia, focusing on the relationship between leptin and other factors like soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1). By understanding these interactions, the research hopes to identify potential therapeutic targets for managing preeclampsia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who are experiencing or are at risk for preeclampsia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have any risk factors for preeclampsia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for preeclampsia, potentially reducing risks for mothers and their babies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of adipokines in pregnancy complications, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Augusta, 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 2026-06-15 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.