NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

Understanding how lymphatic vessels in the uterus develop and function

Official title: Study of the Development and Function of the Uterine Lymphatics

Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10954712 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny vessels in the uterus help keep things balanced and healthy during different stages like your menstrual cycle and pregnancy, which could help us understand issues like endometriosis and cancer better.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project startJuly 1, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$46,438
NIH project number5F31HL170787-02
Project IDNIH-10954712 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with reproductive health concerns, particularly those affected by conditions like endometriosis or uterine cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have any uterine health issues or are not of reproductive age may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the development and role of lymphatic vessels in the uterus, which are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and supporting reproductive health. Using advanced mouse models, the study aims to explore how these lymphatics form and adapt during different reproductive phases, such as the estrous cycle and pregnancy. By examining the relationship between uterine blood vessels and lymphatics, the research seeks to uncover their impact on conditions like endometriosis and cancer. The findings could provide insights into how to improve uterine health and function.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for uterine diseases, potentially improving reproductive health outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: While there has been some research on lymphatics in other organs, this specific focus on uterine lymphatics is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Southern California
    Los Angeles, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Zhao, Luping — University of Southern California
  • Study coordinator: Zhao, Luping

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.