How heat affects fertility through gene regulation in sperm and eggs
Official title: Regulation of sexually dimorphic piRNA pathways in heat-induced infertility
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-10748387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how heat can affect fertility by exploring how certain tiny molecules in sperm and eggs respond to heat stress, which could help us understand why some people might face infertility or birth defects due to environmental factors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R03HD110785-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10748387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriages, particularly those who may be affected by environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or who have no history of miscarriages may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how heat stress impacts fertility by examining the regulation of specific small RNA pathways in sperm and egg development. It focuses on the role of the PIWI/piRNA pathway, which is crucial for maintaining genomic integrity and preventing DNA damage caused by transposable elements. By studying the differences in response to heat stress between male and female germ cells, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to infertility and birth defects. Patients may benefit from insights into how environmental factors like heat can affect reproductive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of infertility and birth defects related to environmental stressors.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic mechanisms of fertility, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kurhanewicz, Nicole a — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Kurhanewicz, Nicole a
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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.