The role of fetal insulin in preeclampsia and maternal cardiovascular disease: a missing piece of the puzzle?

Project Code

MRCPHS26Ex Freathy

Project Type

Dry lab

Research Theme

Population Health Science

Project Summary Download

Summary

Preeclampsia is a serious and life-threatening, but poorly understood pregnancy disease that affects 1 in 50 pregnancies. Women who experience preeclampsia have a two-fold risk of later-life cardiovascular disease. Much research focuses on the mother’s risk factors, but this project takes a novel approach, aiming to define the critical, but under-researched contributions of the fetus and placenta to preeclampsia. It will focus on the role of fetal insulin, a key growth factor. This PhD will address knowledge gaps by analysing comprehensive datasets to elucidate disease mechanisms. The student will receive full training and support to publish their work.

Lead Supervisor

Professor Rachel Freathy

Lead Supervisor Email

r.freathy@exeter.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Exeter