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March of Dimes Invests in Maternal Health Research

The March of Dimes, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of mothers and babies, has recently unveiled a significant investment of $600,000 aimed at supporting innovative research focusing on critical maternal health challenges. This funding will enhance investigations into preeclampsia, optimal aspirin dosing for high-risk pregnant women, and the important role of the vaginal microbiome in influencing preterm birth outcomes.

The 2025 March of Dimes Discovery Research Grants aim to recognize and support three distinguished scientists who have shown exceptional promise in the field of maternal and infant health. Each awarded researcher will receive $200,000 over the next two years, facilitating their endeavors to enhance infant and maternal health outcomes via improved diagnostics, groundbreaking therapies, and new interventions.

As preterm birth continues to afflict various families, the grants are specifically structured to curtail spontaneous preterm deliveries. They also tackle equity issues in maternal healthcare by investigating the disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality rates along with access to vital care.

Dr. Emre Seli, Chief Scientific Advisor at March of Dimes, passionately stated, “Science is pivotal to advancing medical care. Our commitment underlines our pursuit to uncover insights, revolutionize testing, and pioneer treatments that enrich outcomes for mothers and babies.” Moreover, the awarded research is expected to significantly alter the conventional approaches to treating these conditions, which have long affected numerous families.

Among the accomplished recipients:
1. Dr. Wendy Kuohung from Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine is investigating therapies for preeclampsia linked to the APOL1 gene variants. These genetic factors disproportionately impact African American women, placing them at a heightened risk for developing preeclampsia. The research involves an assay that will test various drug compounds on placental cells that exhibit these gene variants, potentially leading to innovative treatment options.

2. Dr. Rupsa C. Boelig, associated with Thomas Jefferson University, focuses on refining aspirin dosage recommendations for women with elevated body mass indices and diabetes, conditions that complicate pregnancy. Her current clinical trial will test if a higher aspirin dose of 162 mg daily proves more efficient in preventing preeclampsia and preterm birth, as previous findings suggest that the standard 81 mg dose may fall short.

3. Dr. Tal Korem, situated at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, is conducting research on how immune-related proteins in the vagina relate to the risk of spontaneous preterm births. By analyzing samples from a cohort of pregnant women, Dr. Korem aims to elucidate relationships among proteins, cytokines, and how the immune system interfaces with the vaginal microbiome.

This fund also reinforces the organization's consistent commitment to maternal and infant health research, with March of Dimes channeling millions of dollars yearly into original scientific investigations. Annually, they also provide funding to five Prematurity Research Centers and manage several grant mechanisms aimed at career development. Their dedication reflects a long-lasting legacy of support for families and individuals during pregnancy.

For additional details regarding March of Dimes’ grants and initiatives, explore their website at marchofdimes.org. Their continuous commitment highlights the urgent need for research-based solutions to enhance health outcomes for mothers and babies everywhere.