Understanding how the immune system contributes to preeclampsia during pregnancy

Evaluating role of complement activation induced signaling pathways in preeclampsia pathology using a novel complement activation-based mouse model

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11126826

This research explores how a part of the immune system called the complement cascade may cause high blood pressure and other problems in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11126826 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Preeclampsia is a serious condition during pregnancy that can cause high blood pressure and other issues. We know that a part of the body's immune system, called the complement system, becomes more active during pregnancy and even more so in women with preeclampsia. This project uses a special mouse model to understand exactly how this immune system activation leads to high blood pressure and can affect fetal growth. By uncovering these specific pathways, we hope to find new ways to help prevent or treat preeclampsia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research aims to understand the causes of preeclampsia, which could eventually benefit pregnant individuals at risk for or diagnosed with the condition.

Not a fit: Patients will not directly participate in this laboratory-based mouse model research, so there is no immediate benefit for current patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific immune pathways to prevent or lessen the severity of preeclampsia.

How similar studies have performed: While complement activation is known to be involved in preeclampsia, this project uses a novel mouse model to specifically link complement activation to pregnancy hypertension and fetal growth restriction.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.