How obesity affects ovarian signaling and fertility

Investigating obesity-induced altered ovarian intracellular signaling

['FUNDING_R01'] · IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10731737

This study looks at how being overweight can change the way ovarian cells react to certain chemicals, which might lead to problems like infertility or early menopause in women, and it aims to help us understand the risks that women with obesity face from these chemicals.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorIOWA STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AMES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10731737 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how obesity alters the way ovarian cells respond to chemical exposures, which can lead to reproductive issues such as infertility and premature menopause in women. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind these changes, particularly how obesity affects the metabolism of chemicals in the ovaries and the ability of cells to repair DNA damage. By using animal models, the researchers aim to uncover the risks that obese women face from environmental chemicals that may harm their reproductive health and the health of their offspring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are obese and experiencing reproductive health issues such as amenorrhea or infertility.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of reproductive health issues in obese women, potentially reducing infertility and associated health complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that obesity can significantly impact reproductive health, but this specific investigation into ovarian signaling and chemical exposure 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.