Finding genes behind male infertility
Search for new genes involved in male infertility through novel approaches
['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11223320
This project uses long-read DNA sequencing to find genes and mutations that may cause infertility in men.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11223320 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will collect DNA and sperm samples from men with unexplained infertility and from people without fertility problems. They will use long-read sequencing to determine whether damaging mutations are on one or both copies of a gene, information that short-read methods often miss. New candidate genes and genomic regions will be tested in mouse models to see if loss of those genes harms sperm development. The goal is to explain more cases of unexplained male infertility and guide future diagnosis or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are men with unexplained (idiopathic) infertility who have not yet received a genetic diagnosis.
Not a fit: Men whose infertility has a known non-genetic cause (for example obstruction or hormonal problems) or who already have a clear genetic diagnosis are less likely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could increase genetic diagnoses for men with unexplained infertility and point to new targets for treatment or contraception.
How similar studies have performed: Previous short-read sequencing approaches have explained only about 1.5% of cases, and long-read sequencing is a newer method that may reveal additional genetic causes but is still being tested.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GARCIA, THOMAS — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: GARCIA, THOMAS
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 below.