Understanding how the immune system tolerates pregnancy-related changes in the body
Autoimmune Regulator gene (Aire)-mediated tolerance to pregnancy-associated self-antigens
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10684826
This study is looking at how a mother's immune system learns to accept her growing baby during pregnancy, focusing on a specific gene that helps manage this process, with the hope of finding ways to prevent pregnancy loss and ensure healthier outcomes for both moms and their little ones.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10684826 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the maternal immune system adapts to tolerate the presence of the fetus and placenta during pregnancy. It focuses on the role of the autoimmune regulator gene (Aire) in managing the immune response to newly induced self-antigens that arise during pregnancy. By studying the effects of Aire on immune cell behavior in mice, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could prevent pregnancy loss and improve outcomes for mothers and their babies. The approach includes analyzing immune cell populations and their interactions in the uterus during early pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant, particularly those with a history of miscarriage or autoimmune disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have a history of pregnancy-related complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing miscarriage and improving pregnancy outcomes for women with autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of Aire in pregnancy has not been extensively studied, related research has shown that immune tolerance mechanisms are crucial for successful pregnancies.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MACKENZIE, TIPPI — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: MACKENZIE, TIPPI
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.