How RNA controls egg and sperm development and fertility
RNA regulation in germline development and fertility
This research looks at how RNA and cell interactions in ovaries and testes shape healthy eggs and sperm to help people with infertility and differences of sex development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159385 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team is studying how the cells that make eggs and sperm communicate and support one another, focusing on RNA and genetic signals that guide development. They use genetic tools, high-resolution cell imaging, and genomic and molecular profiling to map the molecules and cell types needed for healthy gonad and gamete formation. By defining what keeps ovarian and testicular cells distinct and functional, they hope to explain causes of infertility, premature ovarian failure, and differences of sex development. The longer-term aim is to identify biological targets that could lead to ways to prevent or treat reproductive disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with unexplained infertility, premature ovarian failure, difficulty conceiving, or diagnosed differences of sex development would be the most relevant candidates for future participation or benefit.
Not a fit: Patients whose fertility problems are due solely to mechanical issues like blocked fallopian tubes or who need immediate clinical care may not receive direct benefit from this basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets or tests to prevent or treat infertility and disorders of sex development.
How similar studies have performed: Related genetic, imaging, and genomic studies have expanded understanding of reproductive development, but turning those findings into therapies is still at an early, experimental stage.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marlow, Florence Louise — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Marlow, Florence Louise
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.