How uterine immune responses affect sperm movement and embryo implantation
Official title: Uterine epithelial ERα regulates preimplantation uterine immunity and sperm fitness
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10889708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific hormone receptor in the uterus helps with early pregnancy by supporting sperm movement and embryo attachment, especially when the body might see them as foreign, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding more about how pregnancies can succeed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $226,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD112848-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing challenges with conception or recurrent pregnancy loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not trying to conceive or who have no history of fertility issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in the uterus and its impact on early pregnancy events such as sperm migration and embryo implantation. It focuses on understanding how the uterine immune environment is regulated to support these processes, particularly in cases where the sperm and embryo are recognized as foreign by the mother's immune system. By studying mice with specific genetic modifications, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to successful fertilization and implantation, which are critical for achieving pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving fertility and addressing difficulties in conceiving.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in pregnancy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ye, Xiaoqin — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Ye, Xiaoqin
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.