Creating a new mouse model to study sperm development

Generation of a new Cre-deleter mouse line to study spermiogenesis

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10818544

This study is creating a special type of mouse to help scientists learn more about how sperm develops, especially a stage called round spermatids, and it will look closely at a protein called TDP-43 that might affect male fertility.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-10818544 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a specialized mouse model that allows scientists to investigate the process of sperm development, specifically focusing on round spermatids. By using a unique genetic approach, the researchers will create a mouse line that can delete specific genes in these cells, which is crucial for understanding male fertility. The study will explore the role of a protein called TDP-43 in sperm formation, which has been previously linked to male fertility issues. This innovative model will enable more precise studies of gene function during the critical stages of sperm maturation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult males experiencing infertility or difficulties in conceiving.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or are not of reproductive age may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into male infertility and potential therapeutic targets for improving fertility treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized similar genetic models to study fertility, indicating a promising approach for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, 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 2026-06-15 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.