Using placental organoids to understand preeclampsia

Placental Organoids to Model Preeclampsia

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-11001931

This study is working on creating tiny models of the placenta to better understand what causes preeclampsia during pregnancy, so we can find new ways to treat it and help expectant moms stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001931 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create three-dimensional organoids that mimic the human placenta to investigate the causes of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. By using human induced pluripotent stem cells, the researchers will develop trophoblast organoids that replicate early pregnancy conditions. These organoids will help in understanding how shallow placentation leads to preeclampsia and will be used to screen potential drug treatments. This innovative approach allows for the study of placental development and dysfunction in a controlled laboratory setting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those in their first trimester or those with a history of preeclampsia.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for preeclampsia, improving outcomes for pregnant individuals and their babies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully used organoid models to study various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into preeclampsia.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
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.