Understanding how pregnancy adapts to low oxygen levels

The physiological and genetic basis of gestational adaptations to hypoxia

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124039

This study is looking at how low oxygen levels during pregnancy can impact the placenta and the growth of the baby, especially in people who live at high altitudes, to better understand how to protect against potential problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11124039 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how low oxygen levels during pregnancy affect placental development and fetal growth. By examining the physiological and genetic responses of placental cells to hypoxia, the study aims to identify the mechanisms that contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single-nuclei RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression in specific cell types within the placenta. This approach will help uncover the shared biological processes that protect against the negative impacts of hypoxia, particularly in populations adapted to high altitudes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals experiencing complications related to low oxygen levels, particularly those living in high-altitude environments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without any complications related to hypoxia 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 related to low oxygen levels.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding physiological adaptations to hypoxia in other species, suggesting potential for similar findings in humans.

Where this research is happening

FORT COLLINS, 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.