Gene therapy to restore fertility in males with Sertoli cell dysfunction
Official title: AAV gene therapy to restore fertility in mammalian Sertoli cell dysfunction models
Funded at Magee-Women's Res Inst and Foundation · NIH-11055962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new gene therapy using a virus to help treat male infertility caused by problems with Sertoli cells, specifically for men who have a condition called non-obstructive azoospermia, and it aims to find a safe and effective way to restore sperm production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Magee-Women's Res Inst and Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD114406-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055962 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are males diagnosed with non-obstructive azoospermia, particularly those with identified genetic causes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infertility due to obstructive causes or other non-genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy to treat male infertility caused by Sertoli cell dysfunction, specifically in cases of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). The approach involves testing the safety and effectiveness of delivering a corrective gene to Sertoli cells in mouse models that mimic human conditions. By focusing on the genetic causes of infertility, the research aims to develop a potential treatment that could restore sperm production. The study addresses ethical considerations regarding germline modifications and aims to ensure that any therapeutic interventions are safe and effective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for men suffering from infertility due to Sertoli cell dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AAV gene therapy for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Magee-Women's Res Inst and Foundation
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Atkins, Georgia Rae — Magee-Women's Res Inst and Foundation
- Study coordinator: Atkins, Georgia Rae
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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.