Understanding the Vaginal Microbiome and Preterm Birth
A large scale investigation of the vaginal metagenome and metabolome and their role in spontaneous preterm birth
This project looks at the tiny living organisms and chemicals in the vagina to better understand why some babies are born too early.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143948 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are examining a large collection of vaginal samples from pregnant women to understand the connection between the vaginal microbiome and preterm birth. They are looking at both the types of microbes present and the chemicals they produce. By using data from a major national study, they hope to find new ways to predict and prevent preterm birth. This detailed approach aims to uncover the specific mechanisms involved, moving beyond previous limitations in understanding.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research uses existing data and samples from women who participated in the nuMoM2b study, including those who experienced preterm birth.
Not a fit: Patients not currently pregnant or those without a history of preterm birth would not directly benefit from this specific data analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to identify women at risk for preterm birth earlier and develop better treatments to prevent it.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have linked the vaginal microbiome to preterm birth, this project aims to overcome limitations of smaller sample sizes and develop more robust predictors.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Korem, Tal — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Korem, Tal
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.