Understanding how the placenta and developing organs manage nutrients and drugs for the fetus and infants
Official title: Identification, Quantification, and Functional Characterization of Transporters in Human Placenta, Developing Gut and Fetal Brain
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10906208 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the placenta, developing gut, and fetal brain help move nutrients and medications between a mother and her baby, with the goal of making sure that both moms and their little ones get the best care during pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $912,344 |
| NIH project number | 5UC2HD113041-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906208 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women, neonates, and infants who may be exposed to medications or supplements.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or do not have infants may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of transporters in the placenta, developing gut, and fetal brain, which are crucial for the exchange of nutrients and medications between the mother and her fetus. By identifying and quantifying these transporters, the study aims to understand how they affect the absorption and distribution of essential nutrients and xenobiotics during early human development. The research will involve analyzing tissue samples and utilizing advanced methodologies to assess transporter functionality, which could lead to better safety and efficacy of medications for pregnant women and infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the safety and effectiveness of medications and dietary supplements used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding transporter functions in similar contexts, indicating potential for significant advancements in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Joanne — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Wang, Joanne
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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.