Understanding the structure and function of the human placenta and its role in pregnancy complications

Cellular Atlas of the Human Placenta: Structure-Function Relationships and their Implications for Placental Dysfunction

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10876943

This study is looking at how the placenta works and what happens when there are problems during pregnancy, like preeclampsia or when a baby isn't growing as it should, to help us understand how to improve health for both moms and babies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10876943 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationships between the structure and function of the human placenta, particularly in the context of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. By utilizing advanced technologies like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to characterize the different cell types within the placenta and their roles in placental dysfunction. The research will also explore how these cellular changes correlate with maternal and neonatal health outcomes, providing insights into potential interventions. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of placental health and its impact on pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals experiencing complications such as preeclampsia or fetal growth restriction.

Not a fit: Patients with uncomplicated pregnancies or those not experiencing placental dysfunction may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for pregnancy-related complications linked to placental dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding placental function through advanced cellular analysis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Cellular injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.