HAPDY Study

This Canadian Institutes of Health Research funded study is investigating the impact of differing ART regimens on the placenta. This is a collaboration between RIRCA and the University of Toronto. ARVs have been associated with increased risk for adverse birth outcomes including preterm, low-birth weight, and small for gestation age (SGA) births. The mechanisms underlying these outcomes remain poorly understood. As more women conceive while on ART, it is anticipated that findings of preterm and SGA births may become more frequent. Optimal placental development and function is required for optimal foetal growth and the birth of a healthy baby. We are involved in one of the goals of the project, namely to describe the impact of different ARV classes on the placenta as it relates to structure, metabolic function, and immunological/inflammatory status. Our Toronto collaborators will explore the impact of ARV classes on nutrient transporters using in vitro and ex-vivo models, and model ARV class effects on the placenta using a mouse model of HIV infection and test strategies to prevent poor foetal growth. The findings from this study will identify how ARVs affect the placenta structure and function and help inform selection of the safest ARVs to use in pregnancy.