Effects of phthalate exposure on testosterone production in male reproductive cells
Official title: Title: In Vitro Analysis of the Effects of Acute and Chronic Phthalate Exposures on Leydig Cell Testosterone Production, and the Molecular Mechanisms Involved
Funded at Duquesne University · NIH-10730350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals called phthalates might affect testosterone production in important cells for male reproductive health, using a new method to grow these cells from stem cells, so we can better understand their impact on hormones and related health issues like testicular cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duquesne University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $401,895 |
| NIH project number | 2R15ES032102-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are males who may have been exposed to phthalates and are concerned about their reproductive health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have concerns related to male reproductive health or have not been exposed to phthalates may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to phthalates, a type of endocrine-disrupting chemical, affects testosterone production in Leydig cells, which are crucial for male reproductive health. The study utilizes a novel method to derive Leydig cells from stem cells, allowing for long-term analysis of their response to both acute and chronic phthalate exposure. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to understand how these chemicals impact hormonal function and potentially contribute to conditions like testicular cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for male reproductive health issues linked to environmental exposures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that endocrine-disrupting chemicals can negatively impact hormonal functions, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Traore, Kassim — Duquesne University
- Study coordinator: Traore, Kassim
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.