New MRI method provides detailed view of the placenta during pregnancy

Researchers have developed a new method to process MRI scans to reveal the distinct compartments of the placenta, take measurements of oxygen levels in each region and determine if there are malformations in blood vessels (i.e., placental lesions).

MRI scan showing the fetus and placental compartments—intervillous space (red), placental vessels (green), and placental tissue (blue). Photo: Wang Lab, Washington University in St. Louis

The study team, led by Yong Wang, Ph.D., at Washington University in St. Louis and Alison Cahill, M.D., at the University of Texas at Austin, developed analysis methods for MRI scans that are routinely collected in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Importantly, these types of MRI scans do not require contrast agents, which are only used during pregnancy for limited circumstances.

The team’s machine learning method automatically processes MRI data to visualize separate placental compartments, including the intervillous space (the area where maternal blood enters to provide nutrients and gas exchange), placental vessels and placental tissue.

Unlike current MRI analysis methods, which can only measure placental oxygen as an average across the entire organ, the new method can characterize oxygen levels within these discrete compartments.

The study team also used these region-specific measurements to look for differences between 22 study participants with healthy pregnancies and five participants who went on to develop pregnancy complications.

While they did observe trends — highlighting the potential for this technique to detect specific pregnancy complications — further analysis is needed among larger groups of study participants.

Overall, the new method can serve as an objective, quantitative method to assess placental health during pregnancy.

With additional validation and refinement of this technique, the method may be used by healthcare providers as a tool in the care of pregnant patients, especially those at risk for pregnancy complications.

Early monitoring of the placenta can lead to better detection and prevention of pregnancy complications, including preterm birth, fetal growth disorders and preeclampsia. (National Institutes of Health)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Cellular 'glue' to regenerate tissues, heal wounds, regrow nerves

Synthetic molecules that adhere cells could galvanize regenerative medicine.

Probiotic markedly reduces S. aureus colonization in Phase 2 trial

A promising approach to control Staphylococcus aureus bacterial colonization in people – using a probiotic instead of antibiotics – was safe and highly effective in a Phase 2 clinical trial.

Developing mucosal vaccines for respiratory viruses

Vaccines that provide long-lasting protection against influenza, coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have proved exceptionally difficult to develop.

Experimental Cat Allergy Therapy Gives More Effective Relief

Researchers are testing a new way to treat people with allergies. The method uses regular allergy shots plus a lab-made molecule.

Keeping indoor humidity levels at a "sweet spot" may reduce spread of COVID-19

Study links very dry and very humid indoor environments with worse COVID-19 outcome.

New 3-D model offers insights into the role of glucose in a deadly kidney disease

A research team has developed a new approach to better understand the biology of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), an often-life-threatening genetic disorder that affects millions worldwide.