Exploring the connection between cancer and infertility in women
Official title: Dissecting the molecular link between cancer and oocyte-based infertility - a pilot study
Funded at University of Southern Mississippi · NIH-11037520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein might connect cancer and infertility in women, aiming to understand why women who have trouble getting pregnant may also face a higher risk of cancer, using a special yeast model to explore these links.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern Mississippi NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hattiesburg, United States) |
| Project start | November 20, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $148,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HD117085-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing infertility, particularly those with a history of cancer or at risk for developing cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing infertility or have no family history of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that may link cancer and female infertility, particularly focusing on the role of a protein called Protein Phosphatase 1 (PP1). The study aims to understand how abnormalities in cell cycle regulation can lead to both conditions, as women who struggle with infertility are at a higher risk of developing cancer. By using a humanized yeast model, researchers will test the effects of genetic variations on these processes. This approach allows for high-throughput screening of potential links between cancer-related genetic changes and infertility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of infertility and cancer, potentially improving prevention and treatment strategies for affected women.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific molecular link between cancer and infertility is still being explored, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding complex disease mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Camlin, Nicole Jacqueline — University of Southern Mississippi
- Study coordinator: Camlin, Nicole Jacqueline
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Molecular clues to endometriosis-related infertility
This grant explores how molecular changes in endometriosis contribute to infertility, with the aim of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
-
Oral FSH receptor activator drugs to lower infertility treatment costs
A new oral drug approach aims to improve fertility treatments by using a small molecule that activates the FSH receptor, potentially making infertility care more affordable.
-
Prediction of ART outcomes for male factor infertility using single-molecule chromatin stenciling in sperm
A new test called sperm Fiber-seq is being developed to better predict how well ART will work for couples dealing with male-factor infertility.
-
TLR4 blocker for improving fertility in PCOS
A promising, already-approved drug (disulfiram) will be tested to see if it can reduce inflammation and improve ovulation in women with PCOS.
-
Innovative 3D-printed vaginal ring for progesterone delivery to support IVF pregnancies
A new 3D-printed vaginal ring delivers progesterone over 28 days for IVF patients, aiming to improve pregnancy success with fewer rings and less frequent dosing.
-
Genetics of Male Infertility: Accelerating Discovery and Clinical Impact
This grant aims to uncover the genetic causes of male infertility (azoospermia) to improve diagnosis and pave the way for personalized treatments.
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.