Understanding how placental cells interact with maternal immune cells during pregnancy
Modeling human trophoblast-NK cell interactions in term and preterm birth
This study is looking at how cells from the placenta and the mother's immune system work together during pregnancy, to help understand why some pregnancies have problems like preterm birth, and it could help improve outcomes for moms and babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11008929 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between placental cells and maternal immune cells, specifically focusing on how these interactions influence pregnancy outcomes. By studying the mechanisms that allow placental cells to evade immune recognition, the research aims to uncover why some pregnancies may lead to complications such as preterm birth. The approach involves examining the role of decidual natural killer (dNK) cells and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells in the uterine environment, which is crucial for proper blood flow and tissue remodeling during pregnancy. The findings could provide insights into the immune responses that are critical for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those at risk for preterm birth or with a history of pregnancy complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with no history of pregnancy complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of pregnancy complications, potentially reducing the rates of preterm birth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune interactions during pregnancy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parast, Mana M — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Parast, Mana M
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 below.