Effects of folic acid and zinc on male fertility

FOLIC ACID AND ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION TREATMENT (FAZST)

NIH-funded research Fisher Bioservices, INC. · NIH-11340745

This study is looking at whether taking folic acid and zinc can help improve sperm quality and boost the chances of having a baby for men who are going through fertility treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFisher Bioservices, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rockville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11340745 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how folic acid and zinc supplementation may improve semen quality and increase live birth rates among couples facing infertility. The study will involve male participants who are undergoing fertility treatment, assessing the impact of these micronutrients on their reproductive health. By conducting a large-scale trial, the research aims to provide clearer evidence on the effectiveness of these supplements, which are already widely available and low-cost. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the supplements or a placebo, ensuring a rigorous evaluation of the results.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men who are part of couples seeking fertility treatment and may have male factor infertility.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing infertility or those whose infertility is not related to male factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved fertility outcomes for couples struggling to conceive.

How similar studies have performed: While previous smaller studies have shown some promise, this is one of the first large-scale trials specifically examining the effects of folic acid and zinc on male fertility.

Where this research is happening

Rockville, 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 2026-06-10 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.