Epigenetic networks guiding endometrial function in fertility
Official title: Decoding the epigenetic networks that orchestrate endometrial function
Funded at North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11358820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A patient-focused look at how the uterus’ epigenetic switches may affect implantation and pregnancy maintenance in women facing infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | March 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $673,394 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD121906-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11358820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals facing infertility undergoing assisted reproductive technologies, especially those with recurrent implantation failure or recurrent pregnancy loss.
✕Less likely to help
People not experiencing implantation issues or those not seeking assisted reproduction may see no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This grant investigates how epigenetic factors in the endometrium influence successful embryo implantation and ongoing pregnancy for people undergoing assisted reproduction. It focuses on the TET family of proteins that modify DNA marks and regulate gene activity during key uterine processes like implantation and decidualization. The study combines molecular analyses with clinical insights to understand why some women experience recurrent implantation failure or pregnancy loss and how these insights could lead to better therapies. By mapping how epigenetic changes affect uterine receptivity, this work could point to new approaches to improve fertility outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could lead to new diagnostic markers or treatments that improve implantation rates and reduce pregnancy loss for people undergoing fertility treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has linked epigenetic regulation to uterine function, with growing evidence supporting epigenetic targets in fertility, but much remains unknown.
Where this research is happening
-
North Carolina State University Raleigh
Raleigh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Xiaoqiu — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Wang, Xiaoqiu
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Brewing anti-toxin drugs using probiotic yeast
A studying team will develop probiotic yeast–based anti-toxin drugs to help treat gut bacterial infections and reduce antibiotic-related complications.
-
Small Ruminant Therapeutic Center to Speed Safe Drugs for Sheep and Goats
A pilot project at a university will help scientists and veterinarians speed up and improve how drugs are tested and approved for sheep and goats.
-
Metabolic effects of PFAS exposure in the Cape Fear Basin (GenX Exposure Study)
This NIH grant studies how PFAS chemicals in drinking water may affect metabolism and weight-related health in adults and children living along the Cape Fear River.
-
Understanding how Fe/2OG enzymes make pharmacophores like cyclopropane, aziridine, and isonitrile groups
A research project at a university aims to uncover how nonheme-iron enzymes create key drug-building rings and groups to help develop better biocatalysts and medicines.
-
Hemostatic B-knob Microgels for Pediatric Bleeding
A kid-friendly hemostatic therapy using age-tuned microgels to stop dangerous bleeding after injury in children.
-
How cyanotoxins may harm nerve cells in ALS
This grant studies how shared toxins from cyanobacteria might worsen nerve damage in people with ALS.
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.