We support some of the brightest doctors, scientists, academics, and computational experts in the world.
March of Dimes Research seeks to uncover the biological, physiological, psychological, epigenetic, and societal underpinnings of this country’s devastating maternal and infant health crisis—and yet, we know we must do even more, even faster.
In the last few years, we've shifted our research teams toward a more translational research approach that positively impacts patients in the foreseeable future.
While we will continue to invest in decisive pieces of basic science research that propel our fundamental understanding of pregnancy and birth forward, the vast majority of our efforts will live in the translational, direct impact, realm, with an eye toward clinical validation and application. This is happening through our four research grants and two career awards.
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Making impact with research
March of Dimes research is focused on ending preventable preterm birth. We do this by approaching research in several key ways: At both the bench and bedside—through descriptive research that aims to characterize and understand the factors that lead to preterm birth and other adverse outcomes, and through work that leads to mitigation and prevention of preterm birth; and through therapeutics, diagnostics, and/or policy changes.
We know that pregnancy is complex. Our research approach takes a whole-system view and brings the best talent and minds to bear, so we can make a difference in our lifetime.
Recent examples
- How we're making a difference: March of Dimes research programs have made discoveries that lead to direct impact on the health of moms, babies, and their families.
- Prematurity Research Center microbiome studies leading to bedside testing; rapid, low cost predictive testing.
- Early detection of preeclampsia and other adverse pregnancy outcomes through several approaches, including cell-free RNA, data analytics, and other diagnostic markers.
- Understanding maternal-infant nutrition, to wit, Necrotizing Enterocolitis, and how breastfeeding can improve outcomes
Your support helps us fund research
There are several ways to support research at March of Dimes. Your time—through volunteering at events, raising awareness in your community, and recruiting new and impactful researchers to our network; your attention—by focused attention on how research can impact your community, your country, and the global family; and your resources—by way of funding, access to your network, and getting involved in research directly.
We need your help to continue developing diagnostics, therapeutics, and understanding of the complex factors that lead to preterm birth, maternal and infant morbidity and mortality, and overall adverse outcomes in pregnancy. Moms, babies, and families can’t wait for you to step up and get involved.
Join our amazing volunteer community and make a difference in maternal and infant health across the country.
Advocate for healthy moms and strong babies with March of Dimes. Join our network and make a difference in maternal and infant health.
Help save moms and babies nationwide with your donation. Support lifesaving research and advocacy at March of Dimes.
