Understanding how uterine natural killer cells develop and function during pregnancy
Ontogeny and differentiation of uterine natural killer cells
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the uterus help support a healthy pregnancy, and it aims to find out how these cells develop from blood cells, which could lead to better treatments for infertility and miscarriage to help more people have successful pregnancies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010759 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, which play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The project aims to identify the genetic programs that guide the differentiation of these cells from peripheral blood into decidual natural killer (dNK) cells, using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and flow cytometry. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to develop clinical tools that could improve treatment strategies for issues related to infertility and miscarriage, ultimately enhancing reproductive health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing difficulties with pregnancy, such as infertility or recurrent miscarriages.
Not a fit: Patients who are not trying to conceive or who have no history of reproductive issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infertility and miscarriage, benefiting many individuals trying to conceive.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune cell roles in pregnancy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greene, Morgan Elizabeth-Carolyn — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Greene, Morgan Elizabeth-Carolyn
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.