Investigating how maternal genetic factors affect inherited traits in offspring
Official title: Understanding how defects in the maternal epigenetic reprogramming function of LSD1/KDM1A contribute to inherited phenotypes
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11165445 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called LSD1 helps shape the genetic instructions passed from parents to their babies at the moment of fertilization, and it aims to find out how problems with this enzyme might lead to developmental issues or inherited diseases in children, which could help families understand more about these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD116544-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165445 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include families with a history of inherited developmental disorders or those undergoing assisted reproductive technologies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no family history of genetic disorders or those outside the reproductive age may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a specific enzyme, LSD1/KDM1A, in the maternal epigenetic reprogramming process that occurs at fertilization. By studying model organisms like C. elegans and mice, the researchers aim to understand how defects in this enzyme can lead to developmental issues and inherited diseases in offspring. The study involves creating a modified version of the Lsd1 gene to observe its effects on embryonic development and potential inherited traits. Patients may benefit from insights gained about genetic factors influencing early development and inherited conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of inherited diseases and developmental disorders, potentially guiding future treatments or preventive measures.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding the role of epigenetic factors in development, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reeves, Monica — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Reeves, Monica
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.