Investigating how a heart disease protein affects female fertility

The oocyte's progression through meiosis: Involvement of a heart disease-associated protein

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-10636839

This study is looking at how a protein related to heart disease affects the way eggs develop in women, which is important for fertility, and it aims to find out if this protein could be linked to both infertility and heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-10636839 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the role of a protein associated with heart disease in the process of meiosis, which is crucial for female fertility. It examines how the organization and positioning of the meiotic spindle in oocytes are influenced by actin and actin-associated proteins. By studying the effects of a specific protein called nexilin, the research aims to understand its impact on oocyte development and its potential links to both infertility and heart conditions. The methodology includes gene knockouts and RNA interference to observe the effects on meiotic progression and actin organization.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing infertility issues, particularly those with a family history of heart disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are male or those who do not have fertility concerns may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into female infertility and potential therapeutic targets for improving reproductive health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of actin in cellular processes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions DiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.