Blocking a protein in the cervix to create a new type of birth control
Official title: Inhibiting the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in the cervix as a novel approach to non-hormonal contraception
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11017071 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to prevent pregnancy by using a method that keeps cervical mucus thicker during ovulation, which could stop sperm from reaching the uterus, and it’s designed for anyone looking for a non-hormonal birth control option.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $397,690 |
| NIH project number | 5R61HD114161-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017071 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who experience cervical factor infertility or are seeking non-hormonal contraceptive methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking contraception or have no issues related to cervical mucus quality may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a non-hormonal method of contraception by inhibiting a protein called CFTR in the cervix, which affects the consistency of cervical mucus. The study aims to prevent the mucus from becoming too fluid during ovulation, which allows sperm to enter the uterus. By maintaining a thicker mucus consistency, this approach could provide an effective contraceptive method without altering the menstrual cycle. The research will involve laboratory studies to understand how this inhibition works and its potential effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new form of contraception that does not rely on hormones, offering more options for women.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting CFTR in the cervix is novel, similar strategies in reproductive health have shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Leo Liu — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Han, Leo Liu
Related research
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Blocking CFTR in the cervix to prevent conception without hormones
A non-hormonal approach aims to stop sperm from entering the uterus by making cervical mucus too thick for sperm, potentially offering a new contraception option.
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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.