Understanding how oxytocin affects uterine contractions after childbirth

Oxytocin-mediated calcium signaling in physiologic uterine contractility and uterine atony

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10949817

This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin helps the uterus contract after childbirth to prevent heavy bleeding, and it's for women who may have trouble with these contractions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10949817 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of oxytocin in promoting uterine contractions, particularly after childbirth, to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). The study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind how oxytocin works and why some women experience insufficient contractions, known as uterine atony. By using uterine tissue and smooth muscle cell cultures from women with normal and compromised contractility, the research seeks to identify potential new treatments that could enhance uterine function. The findings could lead to improved management strategies for PPH, a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who have recently given birth and are experiencing normal or compromised uterine contractility.

Not a fit: Patients who are not recent mothers or those who have not experienced uterine atony may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively prevent or manage postpartum hemorrhage, improving maternal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding uterine contractility mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on TRPV4 activation is novel.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 2026-06-13 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.