Revitalizing Research in Maternal and Infant Health
March of Dimes, a dedicated organization championing the health of mothers and their babies, has announced a significant research investment worth $600,000. This funding is designated for innovative studies aimed at tackling preeclampsia, determining optimal aspirin dosing for pregnant women at high risk, and examining how the vaginal microbiome influences preterm birth.
Recognizing Outstanding Scientists
The 2025 March of Dimes Discovery Research Grants honor three distinguished researchers renowned for their dedication to advancing maternal and infant health. These exemplary scientists will each receive a grant of $200,000 spread over two years, intended to facilitate their research focused on enhancing health outcomes for mothers and infants through new diagnostics, interventions, and therapeutic approaches.
The Power of Discovery in Maternal Health
Grants are awarded to those spearheading revolutionary studies aimed at reducing instances of spontaneous preterm birth and tackling issues of maternal health inequities. This includes addressing disparities in morbidity and mortality rates while enhancing access to essential health care. Furthermore, these grants will further investigations regarding cardiovascular conditions that adversely affect maternal and neonatal health.
Statements from Leadership
Highlighting the importance of scientific advancement, Dr. Emre Seli, Chief Scientific Advisor at March of Dimes, stated, "Science drives all great medical advances, and March of Dimes is committed to discovering new insights, developing new tests, and creating new treatments to improve outcomes for moms and babies." Dr. Seli emphasized that the awarded research has immense potential to impact lives dramatically.
Details on the Awardees and Their Research
The recipients of this year's funding have proposed exceptional studies:
Dr. Wendy Kuohung's Pioneering Work
Dr. Wendy Kuohung serves as an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and is the Director of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology at Boston Medical Center. She is generating an assay to identify potential drugs for treating preeclampsia associated with specific APOL1 gene variants, which disproportionately affect Black women. Through comprehensive testing of drug compounds on placental cells, her research endeavors to explore how these variants contribute to increased preeclampsia risk.
Dr. Rupsa C. Boelig's Clinical Trial
Dr. Rupsa C. Boelig, also an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, is investigating whether women with diabetes or a higher body mass index require higher aspirin doses to mitigate the risks related to preeclampsia and preterm birth. Her past research indicates that a standard dosage of 81 mg daily may not be sufficient for these women, leading her to conduct a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of a 162 mg dose.
Dr. Tal Korem and Immune Responses
Dr. Tal Korem, with his role at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, focuses on how immune-related proteins present in the vaginal environment may contribute to the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. By analyzing early pregnancy vaginal swabs from a substantial cohort of women, Dr. Korem aims to identify cytokine proteins that could serve as risk markers or possibly protective agents against preterm birth, envisioning a test that assesses preterm birth risk linked to the vaginal microbiome.
A Commitment to Research and Health
March of Dimes takes pride in its commitment to funding impactful research, allocating millions of dollars to innovative scientific inquiries each year. The organization supports a network of five Prematurity Research Centers and multiple grant mechanisms aimed at developing promising career paths in the maternal-fetal health domain. With annual awards recognizing outstanding contributions in this vital field, March of Dimes continues to lead the charge for maternal and infant health advancements.
About March of Dimes
March of Dimes tirelessly advocates for maternal and infant health, fostering initiatives that support research, education, and advocacy. With a legacy of dedication since 1938, the organization aims to provide every family with the best possible start. For additional information, visit the organization's websites or follow them on their social channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the March of Dimes research investment?
The primary goal is to support innovative studies focused on maternal and infant health, particularly regarding preeclampsia, optimal aspirin dosing, and the role of the vaginal microbiome in preterm birth.
How much funding did March of Dimes allocate for the research grants?
March of Dimes allocated a total of $600,000 for this year's Discovery Research Grants.
Who are the recipients of the research grants?
The recipients include Dr. Wendy Kuohung, Dr. Rupsa C. Boelig, and Dr. Tal Korem, each conducting groundbreaking research in maternal and infant health.
What issues do the research projects aim to address?
The projects aim to address critical issues such as preeclampsia, the need for tailored aspirin dosing in high-risk pregnancies, and understanding the vaginal microbiome's role in preterm birth.
What does March of Dimes offer aside from research funding?
March of Dimes provides education, advocacy, and a variety of programs to ensure that every family can secure the best possible start in life.
