Investigating how epigenetic changes in parents affect their offspring's reproductive health

Germline transmission of epigenetic alterations to offspring

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA · NIH-10990538

This study is looking at how changes to DNA that don’t change the genetic code can be passed from parents to kids and might affect reproductive health, especially due to things in our environment, and it aims to help families understand how these factors could influence their future generations.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10990538 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how epigenetic changes, which are modifications to DNA that do not alter the genetic code, can be passed from parents to their children and potentially affect reproductive health. The study focuses on understanding how these changes, influenced by environmental factors like chemicals, may lead to reproductive defects across generations. By using animal models, specifically medaka fish, the researchers aim to determine the mechanisms behind these epigenetic alterations and their implications for future generations. Patients may benefit from insights into how environmental exposures could impact reproductive health in their families.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with a family history of reproductive health issues or those concerned about the effects of environmental chemicals on their reproductive health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have concerns about reproductive health or a family history of related issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of reproductive health issues linked to environmental exposures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that epigenetic changes can influence health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on transgenerational reproductive defects is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

COLUMBIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.