Investigating how age affects chromosome separation in sperm
How age-dependent alterations in meiotic recombination cause chromosome mis-segregation in sperm
This study is looking at how mistakes in the way sperm chromosomes are sorted can cause problems like infertility, miscarriages, and birth defects, and it aims to find ways to improve sperm health to help families have healthy babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10667474 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how errors in chromosome segregation during the formation of sperm can lead to infertility, miscarriages, and birth defects. The study examines the process of meiotic recombination, where DNA breaks are repaired to ensure proper chromosome pairing and separation. By using advanced assays in mouse models, researchers aim to identify the mechanisms that lead to improper crossover formation, which is crucial for healthy sperm development. Insights gained from this research could inform new therapies to prevent these reproductive issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adult males experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriages, as well as those with a family history of congenital abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients who are not of reproductive age or those without a history of infertility or congenital defects may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infertility and reduced rates of miscarriage and congenital defects.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding meiotic processes, but this specific approach to studying age-related effects on sperm chromosome segregation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cole, Francesca — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Cole, Francesca
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.