Understanding how stress affects small blood vessels after gestational diabetes
The role of oxidative stress in reduced microvascular function after gestational diabetes
This research explores how stress in tiny blood vessels might connect gestational diabetes to a higher chance of heart disease and type 2 diabetes in women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Women who have had gestational diabetes face a higher risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes later on. We know that problems with very small blood vessels, called microvascular dysfunction, often come before these conditions. Our previous work suggests that increased oxidative stress, a type of imbalance in the body, contributes to these blood vessel issues. This project aims to understand exactly how oxidative stress affects the way these small blood vessels respond to insulin in women who previously had gestational diabetes. By understanding this connection, we hope to find new ways to protect these women's heart health and prevent future diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are women who have a history of gestational diabetes but are otherwise healthy.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had gestational diabetes or who already have advanced heart disease or type 2 diabetes may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or delay heart disease and type 2 diabetes in women who have had gestational diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: The underlying causes of this association are relatively unstudied, and there is a lack of trials for preventive interventions, making this a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stanhewicz, Anna — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Stanhewicz, Anna
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.