How the MEIG1 protein helps sperm develop and fertilize an egg
The mechanisms of MEIG1 complex in mammalian spermiogenesis and fertilization
This research looks at how the MEIG1 protein complex helps sperm form their tails and package DNA, aiming to help men who have trouble fathering children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11367488 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use animal models and cell samples to track how the MEIG1 protein complex moves inside developing sperm and supports tail formation and DNA packaging. They will study interactions among MEIG1, PACRG, and DNALI1, use high-resolution microscopy to observe the manchette transport system, and apply genetic approaches that alter these proteins. Laboratory tests will include protein binding experiments, chromatin-structure and DNA-damage assays, and imaging of sperm development. Findings in animals and cells may reveal similar problems in human sperm and suggest targets for future diagnostics or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be men with unexplained low sperm motility, abnormal sperm structure, or couples seeking answers about possible male-factor infertility.
Not a fit: People whose infertility is caused by non-sperm factors (for example uterine or ovarian causes) or by genetic conditions unrelated to spermiogenesis are less likely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new diagnostic tests or treatments for some forms of male infertility linked to abnormal sperm structure or DNA packaging.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse and cell-based studies have shown MEIG1 is essential for sperm tail formation and chromatin remodeling, so this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Detroit, United States
- Wayne State University — Detroit, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Zhibing — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Zhibing
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.