Using light-based technologies to monitor tissue changes during pregnancy
Complementary ex vivo multimodal optical imaging and in vivo Raman spectroscopy to understand tissue dynamics
This study is exploring how light and special imaging tools can help us safely check changes in body tissues during pregnancy, especially in areas like the cervix, to better understand how these changes happen over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091616 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how light and light-based technologies can be used to non-invasively monitor changes in the structure and biochemistry of tissues, particularly during pregnancy. By employing advanced imaging techniques like Raman spectroscopy, the study aims to track real-time shifts in tissue physiology in response to various factors. The approach combines both in vivo and ex vivo methods to validate findings against traditional assays, focusing on tissues such as the cervix that undergo significant changes during pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals who are experiencing or at risk for complications related to tissue changes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and understanding of tissue dynamics during pregnancy, potentially enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using Raman spectroscopy for similar applications, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mahadevan-Jansen, Anita — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Mahadevan-Jansen, Anita
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.