Using MRI to predict fetal growth early in pregnancy
Official title: Predicting fetal growth early in pregnancy with non-invasive MRI: Validation in a preclinical model
Funded at University of South Australia · NIH-10986038 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how non-invasive MRI can help spot potential growth issues in babies during pregnancy by checking the placenta's health, so that doctors can better support moms and their little ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Australia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Adelaide, Australia) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $295,212 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD114040-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986038 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals in their second trimester who may be at risk for fetal growth restriction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those in the first or third trimester may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve the early detection of fetal growth restriction (FGR) by utilizing non-invasive Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to assess placental function and fetal development during the second trimester. By analyzing MRI data, researchers hope to identify markers of placental maturation and predict fetal growth outcomes weeks in advance. This approach seeks to provide critical information that could lead to better management of pregnancies at risk for FGR, ultimately enhancing the health of both mothers and babies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of fetal growth issues, potentially reducing the risk of stillbirth and improving neonatal outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of MRI in pregnancy is established, this specific approach to predicting fetal growth through early placental assessment is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Australia
Adelaide, Australia Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morrison, Janna Leigh — University of South Australia
- Study coordinator: Morrison, Janna Leigh
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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.