How immune cells affect ovulation in women

The Impact of Leukocyte-derived Cytokines on Ovulation in Humans

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11175525

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in your body might affect the ovulation process, especially for women undergoing in vitro fertilization, by examining samples from your ovaries to better understand the connection between your immune system and reproductive health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11175525 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of leukocyte-derived cytokines in the ovulation process in women. By analyzing follicular aspirates from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization, the study aims to identify how these immune cells influence hormonal changes and metabolic shifts during ovulation. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the expression of cytokines and their receptors in ovarian follicles. This approach seeks to fill a critical knowledge gap regarding the interplay between immune responses and reproductive physiology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women undergoing in vitro fertilization who may have difficulties achieving pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing fertility treatments or have no issues with ovulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility treatments and improve outcomes for women struggling to conceive.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of immune cells in ovulation is a relatively novel area of research, preliminary findings suggest that similar approaches have shown promise in understanding reproductive processes.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.