How obesity affects ovarian health and fertility

Investigating obesity-induced altered ovarian intracellular signaling

NIH-funded research Iowa State University · NIH-10953911

This study looks at how being overweight can affect women's ovarian health and fertility, helping us understand the risks and challenges that obese women might face when it comes to getting pregnant and having healthy babies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIowa State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ames, United States)
Project IDNIH-10953911 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of obesity on ovarian health, particularly how it alters the body's response to certain chemicals that can lead to reproductive issues such as amenorrhea and infertility. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind these changes, including how obesity affects the metabolism of chemicals in the ovary and the DNA repair processes. By using animal models, the researchers aim to uncover the risks that obese women may face regarding fertility and the health of their offspring due to environmental exposures. The findings could provide insights into the long-term health complications associated with obesity in women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women aged 21 and older who are experiencing obesity and related reproductive health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have reproductive health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of fertility issues in obese women, potentially reducing the risk of birth defects in their children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that obesity can significantly impact reproductive health, but this specific investigation into the ovarian response to chemical exposures in obese women is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Ames, 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.