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<\/a>The honor recognizes quality, originality, and scientific merit of a submitted research abstract, in this case, Moriarity\u2019s \u201cIntraplacental Gene Transfer of IGF-1 Corrects Preeclampsia in BPH\/5 Mouse.\u201d Under the mentorship of Dr. Timothy Crombleholme, professor of surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology at the UConn School of Medicine and director of Connecticut Children\u2019s Fetal Care Center, Moriarty has been studying developing a novel therapeutic approach for preeclampsia using placenta-targeted gene therapy, testing the effectiveness IGF-1, a hormone similar to insulin, in mouse models.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have had the privilege of working with Dr. Moriarty for the past two years as her mentor on her master\u2019s program, the focus of which has been groundbreaking work on the development of placental gene therapy in a mouse model of preeclampsia,\u201d Crombleholme says. \u201cDr. Moriarty is certainly deserving of this award given the innovative nature of her work and the insight provided for developing new approaches to the treatment of preeclampsia.\u201d<\/p>\n
Preeclampsia is a condition during pregnancy and postpartum associated with a number of symptoms, usually including high blood pressure. It can lead to serious complications that threaten the health of both mother and baby.<\/p>\n
\u201cReceiving this award is deeply meaningful to me,\u201d Moriarty says. \u201cIt represents recognition of the work and dedication I have put into advancing research in maternal-fetal medicine. As an early-career investigator, this acknowledgment encourages me to continue asking important questions and striving to improve outcomes for mothers and babies. I am grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and patients who have supported and inspired my work.\u201d<\/p>\n