Non-Invasive Test to Predict Recoverable Sperm for Fertility Treatment
Official title: Development of a Non-Invasive Male Fertility Assay for Testicular Sperm Retrieval and Fertility Treatment
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11463096 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new non-invasive semen test aims to tell men with infertility whether testicular sperm can be retrieved to support IVF.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $445,662 |
| NIH project number | 1R61HD123496-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11463096 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Men diagnosed with infertility, particularly those with azoospermia considering IVF and potential testicular sperm retrieval.
✕Less likely to help
Men who already have retrievable sperm or those not seeking IVF may not benefit from this assay.
What this research studies
This project from UC San Diego aims to create a molecular semen analysis that identifies where spermatogenesis is occurring and estimates the chance of retrieving sperm with a less invasive method than mTESE. The team will develop stage-specific gene markers in semen to predict sperm retrieval outcomes and guide treatment decisions for azoospermic men. The approach builds on preliminary data suggesting semen contains signals reflective of testicular sperm production. If successful, the test could spare patients repeated invasive procedures and streamline fertility planning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could avoid unnecessary invasive procedures and have clearer guidance for pursuing IVF or alternative options.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary proof-of-concept data in this area suggests the concept is promising, but broader validation is still needed.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkinson, Miles Frome — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Wilkinson, Miles Frome
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.