How paternal genetics affect embryo development and pregnancy loss
Official title: Contribution of the paternal histone epigenome to embryo development and pregnancy loss
Funded at Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-11160813 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a father's genetic factors might affect the development of embryos and why some pregnancies end early, using sperm from bulls with low fertility to help understand these issues better and find ways to improve pregnancy success for both humans and cattle.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m Agrilife Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 2, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $330,831 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD115652-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160813 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are couples facing unexplained infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss, as well as cattle breeders dealing with low fertility rates in their herds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or pregnancy loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of paternal epigenetics in embryo development and the reasons behind pregnancy loss in both humans and cattle. It focuses on understanding how alterations in the paternal histone epigenome may contribute to early pregnancy failures. By examining sperm from bulls known to have low fertility, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to abnormal embryogenesis and potential pregnancy complications. The findings could provide insights into improving fertility outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of pregnancy loss, potentially improving fertility treatments for couples experiencing difficulties conceiving.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on paternal histone epigenetics is relatively novel, previous studies have shown that paternal factors can significantly influence embryo development and pregnancy outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m Agrilife Research
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luense, Lacey J — Texas A&m Agrilife Research
- Study coordinator: Luense, Lacey J
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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.