Understanding the differences in the outer layer of the fetal membranes during pregnancy

Establishing the development basis for the morphological and functional asymmetry of the human chorion

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11095875

This study is looking at how a part of the membranes surrounding a baby, called the chorion, grows in different ways during pregnancy, focusing on specific cells that help form it, to better understand potential pregnancy complications.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11095875 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the outer layer of the fetal membranes, known as the chorion, develops differently in various regions during pregnancy. It focuses on the cytotrophoblast cells that contribute to the formation of the smooth chorion and villous chorion, examining their distinct developmental pathways. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify when and how these cells diverge in their functions and characteristics. This understanding could shed light on potential complications during pregnancy related to these developmental processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those in their second trimester.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or are in the early or late stages of pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of pregnancy complications linked to chorion development.

How similar studies have performed: While this research explores novel aspects of chorion development, similar approaches in studying placental biology have shown promising results in understanding pregnancy complications.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.