Understanding how urinary tract infections in pregnant women affect preterm birth

Characterizing the impact of maternal immune response to urinary tract infection on preterm birth

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10982475

This study looks at how urinary tract infections in pregnant moms might lead to early births, using mice to understand how certain bacteria can cause inflammation and affect the pregnancy, with hopes of finding ways to help women who are at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10982475 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between maternal urinary tract infections (UTIs) and the risk of preterm birth. Using a mouse model, the study examines how infections caused by specific bacteria can lead to inflammation that may trigger early labor. By analyzing the immune response and bacterial presence in the bladder and placenta, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to preterm birth. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions for at-risk pregnant women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women in their third trimester who have experienced urinary tract infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a history of urinary tract infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing preterm births in women with urinary tract infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response to infections can lead to significant advancements in maternal and neonatal health, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

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.