NCT07076849 · University of Illinois at Chicago
Probiotic Supplementation in Optimizing Iron and Hematological Status Among Pregnant Females
(ProMoms)
What this study is about
Maternal iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is associated with maternal and infant mortality, spontaneous preterm birth, maternal postpartum hemorrhage, and neurocognitive defects in the neonate. Therefore, preventing maternal IDA in at-risk women is critical. The standard approach to improving iron status in pregnancy (i.e.
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Maternal iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is associated with maternal and infant mortality, spontaneous preterm birth, maternal postpartum hemorrhage, and neurocognitive defects in the neonate. Therefore, preventing maternal IDA in at-risk women is critical. The standard approach to improving iron status in pregnancy (i.e., oral iron supplements) is suboptimal and gastrointestinal discomforts associated with this approach (i.e., constipation) impairs adherence. The incidence of ID (18%) and IDA (5%) in pregnant populations suggest alternative interventions are needed to optimize iron status in pregnancy. There is increasing evidence that consuming the probiotic Lactoplantibacillus plantarum 299v (LP299V®) can enhance dietary non-heme iron absorption by changes in the composition and metabolic patterns of gut microbiota that reduce intestinal pH, enhance mucin production and favor an anti-inflammatory milieu. This immunomodulatory effect may be important because inflammation stimulates hepatic production of hepcidin, a master regulator of systemic iron homeostasis, which inhibits iron flow into circulation from diet and body stores. Further, the effects of LP299V® may extend to the placenta. The investigators' team showed previously that maternal iron deficiency is associated with changes to placental iron metabolism with more iron sequestered in the placenta and less iron transferring to the fetus. Given its positive effects on maternal iron status, the investigators surmise that LP299V® supplementation will result in higher placenta protein expression of iron transporters, transferrin receptor-1 and ferrroportin-1, and lower placental iron accumulation/content. The primary goal of this study is to test the efficacy of this low-cost, safe, innovative approach to optimizing maternal iron status in individuals at risk for ID in pregnancy \[Hb 11.0 - 11.9 g/dL (first trimester) and Hb 10.5 - 11.5 g/dL (second trimester) based on new OB clinical complete blood count (CBC) results obtained from the EHR\] from 10-16 weeks gestational age (GA) until the time of labor. The investigators will also test the effects on neonatal (cord blood) iron status and (cord blood + newborn heel stick) Hb at birth and determine the effect of maternal LP299V® supplementation on the maternal gut microbiome, hepcidin-ferroportin axis and placenta iron and placenta transport of iron as its primary mechanisms of action. Finally, the investigators will explore the effect of maternal LP299V® supplementation on infant neurodevelopment at birth. This study is an essential first step toward evaluating if twice daily oral LP299V® is an efficacious, safe, inexpensive, and scalable clinical strategy for the prevention of maternal ID and its related complications in at-risk women.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- singleton naturally conceived pregnancy;
- at risk of IDA \[Hb 11.0 - 11.9 g/dL (first trimester) and Hb 10.5 - 11.5 g/dL (second trimester) based on new OB clinical complete blood count (CBC) results obtained from the EHR;
- 18 - 45 years old;
- 10-16 weeks GA;
- fluency in English to provide consent and complete study procedures;
- ability to provide consent;
- and ownership of a smartphone (currently more than 90% of our patient population at the CWH).
Exclusion criteria
- IDA or other nutritional anemia (i.e., diagnosed or suspected B12 or folate deficiency) based on new OB blood work that includes MCV and MCH to characterize the anemia;
- recent blood transfusion;
- autoimmune disorder (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis);
- inflammatory bowel disease;
- oral or IV antibiotic use within 2 months;
- previous spontaneous preterm birth;
- history of bariatric surgery;
- malabsorptive disease;
- current hyperemesis;
- current eating disorder;
- hematologic disorder or trait carrier (e.g., hemochromatosis, β-thalassemia);
- current tobacco, alcohol or illicit drug use (Excluding marijuana).
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations