Understanding how placenta cells develop and interact with the uterus during early pregnancy
Official title: Invasive trophoblast cell differentiation
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10999051 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells that help form the placenta work with the uterus to ensure proper blood flow for a healthy pregnancy, which could help us understand and prevent some pregnancy complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | August 12, 2024 |
| Project end | August 11, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32HD116506-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999051 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those experiencing complications related to placental development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differentiation of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells, which are crucial for the development of the placenta in early pregnancy. The study focuses on how these cells interact with the uterus to remodel blood vessels, ensuring adequate blood flow and oxygen for the growing fetus. By examining the roles of specific proteins and signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate the development of these specialized cells. This could lead to insights into complications related to pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve our understanding of pregnancy complications and lead to better management strategies for conditions like preeclampsia or placental insufficiency.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding trophoblast cell differentiation in other species, suggesting potential for similar findings in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Speckhart, Savannah — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Speckhart, Savannah
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.