Understanding the causes of birth defects to improve prevention strategies
Official title: Comp A: Texas BD-STEPS III Core
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10907390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into what causes birth defects to help prevent them, especially focusing on families with Mexican American backgrounds, so we can better understand and reduce these issues for all babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $570,000 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DD001309-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10907390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include expectant parents and families with a history of birth defects, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, including Mexican Americans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of birth defects or are not expecting children may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to investigate the factors that contribute to birth defects, which are significant causes of infant mortality and healthcare costs in the U.S. By analyzing data from a large birth defects registry, the project seeks to identify parental and infant determinants that may lead to these conditions. The study will focus on increasing diversity in its participant pool, particularly among Mexican Americans, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The findings could help develop effective population-level prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of birth defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies that reduce the occurrence of birth defects and associated health complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in birth defects prevention has shown success in identifying risk factors and developing strategies, indicating that this approach has the potential for meaningful contributions to the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agopian, A.j. — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Agopian, A.j.
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.