Understanding how pregnancy affects heart health
Official title: Mechanisms Contributing to Pregnancy-induced Cardiac Remodeling
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-10989902 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how pregnancy affects the heart and what happens afterward, with the goal of finding ways to keep moms healthy and prevent heart problems during and after having a baby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,561 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL163003-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989902 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women or those who have recently given birth, particularly those at risk for cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or have not recently given birth may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes that occur in the heart during and after pregnancy, focusing on how these changes can lead to cardiovascular complications. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind cardiac remodeling, which is the heart's adaptation to increased demands during pregnancy. By examining metabolic processes, particularly the role of ketone bodies, the research seeks to identify factors that could support maternal heart health and prevent complications. This could ultimately lead to improved care for pregnant and postpartum women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing cardiovascular complications in pregnant and postpartum women.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been some research on cardiac health in pregnancy, this study explores novel mechanisms that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Collins, Helen E — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Collins, Helen E
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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.