How the CatSper channel controls sperm movement and fertility
CatSper regulation of sperm physiology and fertility
This research looks at how a sperm protein called CatSper makes calcium signals that power sperm movement and could help men with fertility problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11284091 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You will learn how CatSper channels in sperm create tiny calcium signals that drive movement, using advanced imaging, mouse models, and human sperm samples. The team has discovered new parts of the CatSper complex and created animal models to see how those parts affect sperm motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. Researchers use 3D molecular imaging and cryo-electron tomography to visualize CatSper inside sperm tails at very high resolution. The goal is to link CatSper activity with metabolic and protein-degrading pathways that together control sperm function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with unexplained infertility or suspected sperm motility problems would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical activities or future trials.
Not a fit: People whose infertility is due to non-sperm factors (for example, tubal blockage or ovulation problems) would likely not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new tests or treatments for male infertility caused by poor sperm motility.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and human-sample studies have established CatSper as essential for sperm motility and have resolved parts of its structure, but translating these findings into therapies remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chung, Jean-Ju Lucia — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Chung, Jean-Ju Lucia
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.