Understanding late fetal organ development

Study of Late-foetal Human Organ Development

Observational University College London Hospitals · NCT04661059

This study looks at how fetal organs develop in the later stages of pregnancy to help us understand birth defects and improve treatments for them.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment2000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity College London Hospitals Academic / other
Locations1 site (London)
Trial IDNCT04661059 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to gather knowledge about normal and abnormal organ development during the last two-thirds of pregnancy, a critical period for fetal tissue remodeling. It involves collecting tissue samples from various developing fetal organs from women who choose to undergo termination of pregnancy and consent to a clinical fetal postmortem examination. The findings could enhance our understanding of congenital disorders and inform future treatment approaches for affected individuals.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pregnant women aged 18 and older who have concerns about fetal abnormalities and decide to proceed with termination of pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to make an informed decision about termination of pregnancy or have positive screening labs for certain infections will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for congenital disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on late fetal organ development, studies focusing on early fetal tissues have shown promise, making this approach novel and potentially impactful.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥18 years old pregnant women who attend the Fetal Medicine Unit for concerns about a fetal abnormality where they decide to proceed to termination of pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Screening labs positive for maternal HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, Chlamydia and Herpes.
* Subject unable to make an informed decision about termination of pregnancy.

Where this trial is running

London

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 Congenital Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.