New Research Funding Announced to Tackle Preeclampsia Through Genetic Insights

Funding for Preeclampsia Research

In a significant development in women's health research, the Preeclampsia Foundation has unveiled the recipients of its 2025 Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants. The foundation has awarded two research grants of nearly $100,000 each to prominent researchers, Dr. Zsuzsanna K. Zsengellér and Dr. Virginia D. Winn. This initiative aims to investigate genetic mechanisms that could lead to the development of effective therapies for preeclampsia, a condition that poses serious risks during pregnancy.

Recipients of the 2025 Grants

Dr. Zsuzsanna K. Zsengellér holds the role of Assistant Professor of Medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, where she focuses her research on targeted therapies for preeclampsia. A graduate of Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical University in Hungary, she is recognized for her innovative approach toward using antioxidants and other therapeutic agents to address complications arising from preeclampsia. Her project, titled "Novel small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of preeclampsia," aims to delve into hydrazone-based antioxidants specifically designed to alleviate oxidative stress, a key factor in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. This research will involve collaboration with the Török Lab at the University of Massachusetts Boston.

On the other hand, Dr. Virginia D. Winn serves as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stanford University, alongside her directorship of Reproductive, Stem Cell, and Perinatal Biology. With a PhD in Biochemistry and extensive experience in maternal-fetal medicine, Dr. Winn intends to harness induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from mothers and children impacted by preeclampsia. Her research project, "Harnessing Paired Maternal-Child iPSCs to Model PE," seeks to compare these cells with those from normal pregnancies to uncover the varied subtypes of preeclampsia.

The Background of the Grants

The Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program was established in memory of Peter, an infant who tragically lost his life due to complications from preeclampsia. His parents, Lauren and Clement Pappas, have dedicated their efforts to helping other families prevent similar tragedies. This annual grant program, aimed at allocating up to $200,000 for groundbreaking research that could aid in eradicating the need for pre-term deliveries as a response to severe preeclampsia and related disorders, reflects their resolve. "We lost our son Peter due to preeclampsia following a 29-week delivery in 2015," shared Lauren Pappas. "Since then, our mission has been to prevent others from experiencing the same loss."

The Preeclampsia Foundation's commitment extends beyond these grants, encompassing additional research initiatives such as their Vision Grant program for emerging researchers and the PRIME program focused on health services research. Furthermore, they actively work on the EMPOWER initiative, aimed at building research capabilities in low- and middle-income countries.

Marc F. Kaplan, M.D., a notable figure in the field, emphasized the importance of such funding in advancing knowledge and treatment options related to preeclampsia. As healthcare practitioners turn their eyes towards research and science, collaborative efforts like these are vital in fostering innovative treatments and improving maternal and child health outcomes.

For anyone seeking more information about the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program, the Preeclampsia Foundation encourages inquiries to be directed via email.

About the Preeclampsia Foundation

Founded in 2000, the Preeclampsia Foundation is a dedicated non-profit organization striving to enhance outcomes for individuals experiencing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. They aim to enhance awareness, advocate for better healthcare practices, and ultimately find a cure. The foundation envisions a future where preeclampsia and similar health issues do not endanger mothers and their children.

For further details, visit their website at www.preeclampsia.org.