Understanding the causes of miscarriage
Molecular Antecedents of Miscarriage
This study is looking at why some healthy pregnancies end in miscarriage, focusing on tiny molecules in the blood called microRNAs that might help predict these losses, and it's for pregnant women who want to understand more about what could affect their pregnancy.
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-10873307 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the underlying factors contributing to miscarriage, particularly focusing on chromosomally normal pregnancies that end in loss. The team hypothesizes that microRNAs, which are small molecules that regulate gene expression, play a crucial role in predicting pregnancy loss. By analyzing blood samples from pregnant women, the researchers aim to identify specific microRNAs that differ between healthy pregnancies and those that result in miscarriage. This study utilizes a large dataset from early pregnancy cohorts to enhance understanding of the biological and environmental influences on miscarriage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who have experienced one or more miscarriages, particularly those with chromosomally normal pregnancies.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced miscarriage or those with known chromosomal abnormalities in their pregnancies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and interventions for women experiencing miscarriage.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using microRNAs as biomarkers in various medical conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
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.