A device to test how chemicals affect ovarian health

An ovary-on-a-chip to identify ovarian toxicity

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11089498

This study is looking at how certain chemicals and medicines might affect women's ovarian health using a special model that acts like real ovaries, helping us find out which substances could cause problems like hormonal imbalances or infertility, so we can make safer products for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11089498 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of various environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals on ovarian health using an innovative 'ovary-on-a-chip' model. The device mimics the natural structure and function of human ovaries, allowing researchers to observe how these substances may cause ovarian toxicity, which can lead to issues like hormonal imbalance and infertility. By developing a high-throughput testing method, the research aims to identify harmful chemicals more efficiently, potentially leading to safer consumer products. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and prevention of ovarian-related health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are reproductive-aged women and prepubertal girls who may be exposed to environmental toxins.

Not a fit: Patients who are not of childbearing age or those with existing severe ovarian dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better safety assessments of chemicals, reducing the risk of infertility and hormonal disorders in women.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using organ-on-a-chip technologies for toxicity testing, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.