Understanding Miscarriage at a Molecular Level
Molecular Antecedents of Miscarriage
This research explores tiny genetic signals called microRNAs to understand why some pregnancies end in miscarriage, especially when chromosomes appear normal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124130 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Miscarriage is a common and heartbreaking experience, and often the reasons are unclear, especially when the baby's chromosomes are normal. Our team is looking closely at tiny genetic signals called microRNAs, which are like master switches that control how our genes work. We believe these microRNAs might play a key role in why some pregnancies end, and we're studying them in blood samples from women to see how they change during pregnancy and in cases of miscarriage. By identifying specific microRNAs, we hope to uncover new insights into the causes of miscarriage and develop better ways to predict or understand these losses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for women who have experienced miscarriage or are at risk, particularly those whose losses were not due to chromosomal abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients whose miscarriages are clearly linked to known chromosomal abnormalities may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand, predict, and potentially prevent miscarriages that are not caused by chromosomal problems.
How similar studies have performed: While previous pilot work has identified some relevant microRNAs, this specific approach to understanding their role in miscarriage is a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fichorova, Raina N. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Fichorova, Raina N.
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.