How genetic code regulation affects fertility using fruit flies
Official title: Regulation of fertility and reproduction by codon usage: a Drosophila model
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11143081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain parts of our genetic code affect fertility by using fruit flies to understand how proteins in the testis and brain help with reproduction, which could lead to new insights for human fertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | July 23, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $339,051 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD113543-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing fertility challenges, particularly those with unexplained infertility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have fertility issues unrelated to genetic or molecular factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the regulation of genetic code impacts fertility, focusing on the role of rare codons in gametes and reproductive neurons. By using fruit flies as a model, the study explores how specific proteins are expressed in the testis and brain, which are crucial for successful reproduction. The researchers aim to uncover new mechanisms that control fertility and reproductive behavior, potentially linking findings in flies to human reproductive biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility issues and potential treatments for individuals facing difficulties in conceiving.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promising results in understanding genetic regulation of fertility, but this specific approach using rare codons in Drosophila is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fox, Donald T. — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Fox, Donald T.
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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.