How the brain's daily clock controls ovulation
Official title: Suprachiasmatic nucleus to kisspeptin circuit in the circadian control of reproduction
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-11258861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are learning how the brain's master clock signals reproductive brain cells to time the hormone surge that triggers ovulation, which could help people with timing-related fertility issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $342,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD109337-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11258861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with irregular ovulation or fertility issues potentially linked to disrupted daily rhythms (for example shift workers or those with irregular cycles) would be the most relevant group for future related studies.
✕Less likely to help
People whose infertility is due to unrelated causes such as blocked fallopian tubes, severe male-factor infertility, or certain genetic conditions are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic research.
What this research studies
This project studies how the suprachiasmatic nucleus (the brain's circadian clock) connects to kisspeptin neurons that drive the hormone surge for ovulation. In laboratory models the team will map neural connections, record neuron electrical activity, and test the effects of signaling molecules such as vasopressin and GABA. They will compare signaling on days when the ovulatory surge occurs versus other days to identify timing mechanisms. Although the work is preclinical, it is intended to reveal targets that could inform future treatments for disrupted ovulation timing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to diagnose or treat fertility problems caused by disrupted timing of ovulation.
How similar studies have gone: Prior animal studies have shown clock signals like vasopressin can activate kisspeptin neurons, but translating these findings into human treatments has not yet been achieved.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piet, Richard — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Piet, Richard
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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.