New Initiative Aims to Prevent Pre-Term Deliveries from Preeclampsia

New Research Grants Targeting Preeclampsia

In a significant advancement in maternal-fetal health, the Preeclampsia Foundation has unveiled its plans to offer funding through the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program. This initiative aims to make strides toward eliminating pre-term deliveries resulting from preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. With an emphasis on innovative research, the grant program is named in memory of Peter Joseph Pappas, the son of Lauren and Clement Pappas, who tragically lost their child due to complications arising from severe preeclampsia.

The program will allocate up to $200,000 in grants by 2026. It specifically seeks proposals that address critical research gaps highlighted during a specialized workshop co-hosted by the Preeclampsia Foundation and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine in 2020. Researchers are encouraged to propose studies that explore aspects like the underlying biological mechanisms of preeclampsia, development of better diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing and reversing the condition’s harmful effects.

Given the urgency of the issue, proposals that utilize the data from the Preeclampsia Registry®—which includes rich information such as whole exome sequencing and clinical data—will be prioritized. The registry is a vital resource that compiles data from both preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome survivors, contributing valuable insights that could further enhance our understanding of these conditions.

In terms of eligibility, applicants are expected to develop research proposals focusing on the identified gaps in the current landscape of preeclampsia research. This can encompass a variety of areas, from the inquiry into different subtypes of preeclampsia to prevention strategies aimed at enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes. The overarching vision is bold: to eradicate pre-term births due to preeclampsia by the year 2050.

The motivation behind creating this grant stems from the personal loss experienced by the Pappas family. After enduring the heart-wrenching experience of losing their son, who was delivered at just 29 weeks due to severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, they have committed themselves to ensuring that other families do not face the same fate.

Lauren Pappas articulated their mission succinctly: "Since losing Peter, we have dedicated our lives to helping others avoid the same outcome. With generous support from our community and partnerships, we are making strides toward our ultimate goal."

In addition to the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants, the Preeclampsia Foundation already maintains various other research initiatives, including the Vision Grant program aimed at young investigators dedicated to advancing preeclampsia research. The foundation's efforts are holistic, as they strive not only to better outcomes for mothers and babies facing hypertensive challenges during pregnancy but also to advocate for critical improvements within healthcare practices.

For those interested in applying for the funding, the deadline for letters of intent is August 15, 2025. All information regarding application procedures can be found on the Preeclampsia Foundation’s official website at www.preeclampsia.org/research-funding.

About the Preeclampsia Foundation

Founded in 2000, the Preeclampsia Foundation is a non-profit organization based in the United States that aims to improve outcomes for women facing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Its mission encompasses education, community support, and advocacy to foster better healthcare practices while driving research to ultimately find a cure for these life-threatening conditions.

Conclusion

With such dedicated efforts aimed at tackling the issue of preeclampsia, the Preeclampsia Foundation is driving forward meaningful conversation and research that could save countless lives. The next generation of maternal health may, through this initiative, see significant changes, proving that innovative research funding can indeed pave the way for extraordinary health improvements.