Understanding how the immune system balances maternal and fetal needs during pregnancy

Innate Allorecognition at the Maternal-Fetal Interface

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11117107

This study is looking at how certain immune system receptors in mothers can help or hinder their current pregnancy and future ones, especially in relation to issues like preeclampsia, and it involves both mice and people to find out more about the genetic factors that might play a role in pregnancy complications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117107 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the immune system's allorecognition receptors on maternal cells influence the balance between supporting the current pregnancy and preserving future reproductive success. By studying both mice and human subjects, the researchers aim to understand how these receptors affect the maternal immune response at the maternal-fetal interface. The study will explore the consequences of disrupting this balance, particularly in relation to gestational disorders like preeclampsia. Patients may be involved in the human component of the research, which seeks to identify genetic factors linked to pregnancy complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include pregnant individuals, particularly those with a history of gestational disorders such as preeclampsia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently pregnant or those without a history of gestational 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-related complications, enhancing maternal and fetal health.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on allorecognition receptors in pregnancy is novel, related research has shown success in understanding immune responses in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.