Understanding how METTL3 affects placenta development during pregnancy

Deciphering the role of METTL3 in Mammalian Placenta Development and Maintenance Across Pregnancy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11162528

This study is looking at how a special enzyme called METTL3 affects the growth and health of the placenta during pregnancy, which is important for preventing issues like growth problems in the baby and high blood pressure in moms, and it could help find new ways to support healthier pregnancies.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (KANSAS CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11162528 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of METTL3, a specific enzyme, in the development and maintenance of the placenta during pregnancy. By studying mutant mouse models and human trophoblast cells, the researchers aim to uncover how METTL3 influences the growth and function of placental cells, which are crucial for a healthy pregnancy. The study focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind placental dysfunction that can lead to complications such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and preeclampsia. Insights gained from this research could help identify new therapeutic targets for improving pregnancy outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or those planning to conceive, particularly those with a history of pregnancy complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not plan to become pregnant may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for pregnancy-related disorders, improving outcomes for both mothers and their babies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that targeting molecular mechanisms in placental development can lead to significant advancements in understanding pregnancy complications, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

KANSAS CITY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.