How LINE‑1 mobile DNA behaves inside mammals
In vivo biology of mammalian L1 retrotransposition
This project looks at how a common mobile DNA element called LINE‑1 acts inside mammal cells, especially in the male germ line, and how it might contribute to infertility and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11245737 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses mouse genetics to track how LINE‑1 elements move and copy themselves inside cells, with a focus on sperm‑forming (male germ) cells. They will test whether a cellular trafficking system called ESCRT helps LINE‑1 travel within cells and enable retrotransposition. Researchers will disrupt the ESCRT/LINE‑1 interaction in mouse models to see if that reduces germ line defects and infertility. Results will be used to connect basic LINE‑1 biology to conditions like infertility, cancer, and aging and to guide future patient‑facing approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by male infertility or conditions suspected to involve abnormal LINE‑1 activity would be the most relevant eventual candidates for therapies stemming from this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical benefit should not expect direct treatment from this lab‑based mouse research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets to prevent or treat infertility and other diseases linked to uncontrolled LINE‑1 activity.
How similar studies have performed: Prior yeast and cell culture studies have shown ESCRT helps LINE retrotransposition, but applying and testing this mechanism in animals and linking it to disease is novel.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Tulane University of Louisiana — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Jeffrey S — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Han, Jeffrey S
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.