NIH-funded research R21 grant

How maternal factors influence egg development in zebrafish

Official title: Maternal regulation of microtubules in egg developmental competency

Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10999869 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how things from a mother, like her genes and health, help eggs develop properly in zebrafish, which could give us important clues about fertility and how to improve it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startAugust 6, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$243,750
NIH project number1R21HD116483-01
Project IDNIH-10999869 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in reproductive health, particularly those facing challenges related to fertility or egg development.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not seeking to conceive or who do not have concerns related to reproductive health may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of maternal factors in the early stages of egg development, particularly focusing on how these factors regulate processes necessary for fertilization and embryonic growth. Using zebrafish as a model organism, the study aims to understand the mechanisms by which maternal contributions affect the activation of eggs and subsequent development. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to explore the genetic and cellular processes involved in this regulation. By examining these processes, the study seeks to uncover critical insights into reproductive success and fertility.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of fertility and developmental biology, potentially leading to improved reproductive health strategies.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using zebrafish to study maternal factors in development, indicating that this approach is both valid and promising.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mullins, Mary C. — University of Pennsylvania
  • Study coordinator: Mullins, Mary C.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.