Understanding how oxytocin affects contractions in engineered human uterine tissue

Quantitating Oxytocin-induced Contractility in Bioengineered 3D Human Myometrium

['FUNDING_R21'] · TEXAS ENGINEERING EXPERIMENT STATION · NIH-11117725

This study is looking at how different amounts of oxytocin affect the contractions of a special model of human uterine muscle, which could help doctors use this hormone more safely during labor for expecting moms.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS ENGINEERING EXPERIMENT STATION (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11117725 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of oxytocin on the contractility of bioengineered human myometrium, which is the muscle layer of the uterus. By creating a 3D model of human uterine tissue using cells from patients, the researchers aim to better understand how different doses of oxytocin influence muscle contractions during labor. This could lead to improved dosing strategies for oxytocin, potentially reducing the risks associated with its use during childbirth. The study will utilize advanced bioengineering techniques to create a more accurate representation of human uterine tissue for testing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who are approaching term (over 37 weeks of gestation) and may require oxytocin for labor induction or augmentation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not at term may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective use of oxytocin during labor, improving outcomes for mothers and newborns.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using bioengineered tissues is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding uterine contractility, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

COLLEGE STATION, 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.