Investigating blood vessel changes during pregnancy

Angiotensin 2 Receptor (AT2R) Expression/Activation in Endothelial Cells in Preeclampsia

Observational University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT03806283

This study is trying to see how blood vessels change during pregnancy in women with and without preeclampsia by looking at tissue samples taken during cesarean sections.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment166 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT03806283 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to compare the vascular adaptations in pregnant women with and without preeclampsia by collecting omental and placental tissue during cesarean sections. The research will focus on the expression and activation of the AT2 receptor and its role in vascular function and dysfunction. A total of up to 114 pregnant women will be enrolled, with the option to provide one or both types of tissue specimens. The study will analyze the collected samples to understand fetal vascular dysfunction associated with preeclampsia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women aged 18 to 40, undergoing a cesarean section, and diagnosed with or without preeclampsia.

Not a fit: Patients with preexisting hypertension, major fetal anomalies, or other significant underlying health conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of preeclampsia, potentially enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While this study explores specific mechanisms in preeclampsia, similar studies have shown promise in understanding vascular adaptations during pregnancy.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female
* Ages 18 to 40 years old
* Singleton gestation between 28 weeks, 0 days and 41 weeks, 0 days gestational age at the time of consent
* Undergoing caesarean section, either planned or otherwise with or without trial of labor

Exclusion Criteria:

* Treatment of severe hypertension by antihypertensive or use of magnesium sulfate after the patient is hospitalized for the diagnosis of preeclampsia.
* Any major fetal structural anomalies or aneuploidies
* Undergoing cesarean section for placental abruption or bleeding complications.
* Singleton gestation not within 36 weeks, 0 days and 41 weeks, 0 days gestational age at the time of enrollment (delivery)

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pre-EclampsiaVascular Diseases
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.