Uterine connective tissue and blood vessel changes that support early pregnancy
Extracellular Matrix-Mediated Endometrial Decidualization and Angiogenesis
Researchers are looking at how key connective-tissue proteins in the uterus help the womb build a supportive lining and blood vessels during early pregnancy for people trying to carry a baby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11322016 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at how fibrillar collagens in the uterine lining support the changes needed after implantation in early pregnancy. Using a new mouse model that removes the Col5a1 collagen gene, researchers examine how loss of this collagen affects decidualization (the formation of the pregnancy-supporting lining), embryo invasion, and blood-vessel growth. The team uses tissue analysis, cellular assays, and imaging to trace extracellular matrix remodeling that leads to bleeding and embryo loss. Results are intended to identify tissue-level defects that could inform future tests or treatments to reduce early pregnancy loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have experienced recurrent early pregnancy loss or first-trimester bleeding would be the most relevant candidates for later clinical studies informed by this work.
Not a fit: People whose pregnancy loss is due to known chromosomal abnormalities or those seeking immediate fertility interventions may not directly benefit from this basic-lab focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to diagnose or prevent early pregnancy loss by targeting abnormal uterine tissue or blood-vessel changes.
How similar studies have performed: This builds on preliminary mouse data showing collagen V is essential for decidualization, but directly linking fibrillar collagen to pregnancy outcomes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- University of Vermont & St Agric College — Burlington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nallasamy, Shanmugasundaram — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Nallasamy, Shanmugasundaram
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.