How different cell types shape male and female external genital development
Diversification of cell types during male and female external genital development
Researchers are mapping which cells guide male and female external genital formation in mice to better understand birth differences like hypospadias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140958 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses mice to map cell types in the developing external genitalia with single-cell methods and 3-D imaging. Scientists will compare male and female tissue to see which cells respond to sex hormones during urethra and genital formation. They will also test how endocrine-disrupting chemicals change specific cell populations that are important for normal development. The goal is to identify cellular targets that could eventually help prevent or correct congenital genital differences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: The findings would most directly help babies and children born with congenital external genital differences, especially boys with hypospadias, and their families.
Not a fit: Adults with acquired genital injuries or cosmetic concerns and people whose conditions are not developmental in origin are unlikely to benefit directly from this mouse-based work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify specific cells or pathways that lead to congenital genital differences and suggest ways to prevent or treat conditions like hypospadias.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown that sex hormones and some environmental chemicals can cause genital malformations, but using single-cell and 3-D mapping to pinpoint the responsible cell types is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohn, Martin J — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Cohn, Martin J
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.