Tommy’s National Centre for Preterm Birth launched on 20th March 2024. In the UK, 1 in 13 babies is born prematurely (prior to 37 weeks), negatively impacting upon both the survival of babies and their long-term health. The UK government’s aim is to reduce preterm birth to 6% (about 1 in every 16 births) by 2025. A dedicated research centre aims to support such achievements and pave the way to further improvements in the future.
The centre is a collaboration led by Professor Catherine Williamson of Imperial College London alongside 5 carefully considered research institutions in the UK. The University of Leeds was selected in view of both clinical and research expertise in the field of preterm birth. Through research, the aim is to explore the causes, develop new treatments and ultimately reduce rates of preterm birth.
Mr Nigel Simpson and Dr Elizabeth Bonney are both consultant obstetricians and nationally renowned preterm birth specialists who run dedicated clinics at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. They will work alongside researchers at the University of Leeds; NIHR Clinical Lecturer Dr Lara Morley, group leader Professor David Beech, Mauntner Fellow Dr Marjolaine Debant and Clinical Research Fellow Dr Sophie Earle.
Research by the University of Leeds Tommy’s group will focus upon the role of mechanobiology in preterm birth. Piezo1 is a force-detecting sensor found in the placenta and muscle of the womb. Researchers think that the way in which the womb can sense force may impact upon spontaneous preterm birth rates. They also think that Piezo1 is involved in babies who are abnormally small due to failing placentas, which may necessitate early birth.
Tommy’s National Centre for Preterm Birth will fund the above-mentioned research over a 5-year period, enabling appointment of research fellows and technical staff. Research activities will also support other clinical academics working within the Leeds pregnancy network; Dr Nic Orsi and Dr Rebecca Spencer.
The University of Leeds is the only academic institution outside of London to host a research site. This is therefore excellent news for patients from Leeds and across the region who access specialist care at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
Pictured left to right: Sophie Earle, Muath Bajarwan, David Beech, Marjolaine Debant, Safia Darboe, Lara Morley