Understanding how the placenta, gut, and brain transport substances in babies
Identification, Quantification, and Functional Characterization of Transporters in Human Placenta, Developing Gut and Fetal Brain
This project helps us understand how important proteins in the placenta, a baby's gut, and brain control what nutrients and medicines reach a developing baby.
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 ID | NIH-11129723 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The placenta acts like a filter, controlling what passes between a mother and her baby. After birth, the baby's gut and brain also have special barriers that manage what substances get in. This research looks closely at specific proteins, called transporters, in these key areas to see how they move nutrients, vitamins, and medicines. By identifying and measuring these transporters, we can better understand how a baby's body handles different substances, which is crucial for their healthy development and safe use of medications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding biological processes in human placenta, developing gut, and fetal brain, and does not directly recruit patients for participation.
Not a fit: Patients not directly involved in research related to pregnancy, fetal development, or infant health may not see direct benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This research could lead to safer and more effective use of medications and supplements for pregnant mothers, fetuses, and infants by predicting how substances are absorbed and distributed in their bodies.
How similar studies have performed: While some ABC transporters in the placenta are known, this research aims to identify and quantify a broader range of transporters in multiple developing tissues, making it a novel and comprehensive approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Joanne — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Wang, Joanne
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.