How exposure to certain chemicals affects male fertility
Official title: Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of infertility caused by endocrine disrupting chemicals
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10732255 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in our environment might affect fertility later in life and even impact future generations, especially by studying how these chemicals change genes and cell function in the testicles, with the goal of finding ways to prevent and treat infertility caused by these factors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2021 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $311,752 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES030722-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10732255 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adult males who have experienced infertility issues potentially linked to environmental chemical exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have infertility issues or whose infertility is not suspected to be related to environmental factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during development can lead to infertility in adulthood and potentially affect future generations. The study aims to understand the genetic and epigenetic changes caused by these chemicals, particularly focusing on their impact on testicular function. By examining how EDCs alter gene expression and mitochondrial function in testicular cells, the research seeks to develop strategies for preventing and treating infertility linked to environmental factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for male infertility caused by environmental exposures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental exposures can impact reproductive health, suggesting that this investigation could yield valuable insights into infertility mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Tracie R — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Baker, Tracie R
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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.