Investigating how PFAS chemicals affect male reproductive health before conception

Uncovering the Molecular Signature of PFAS Mixtures on Preconception Male Reproductive Health

NIH-funded research Wayne State University · NIH-11163920

This study is looking at how exposure to certain chemicals called PFAS might affect men's reproductive health, especially before they become fathers, by examining how these chemicals influence sperm development and hormone levels.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWayne State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Detroit, United States)
Project IDNIH-11163920 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exposure to PFAS chemicals may impact male reproductive health, particularly before conception. It aims to explore the effects of these chemicals on sperm development and testosterone levels through advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing. By studying the molecular changes in sperm and epididymosomes, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which PFAS may contribute to infertility in men. The findings could provide insights into how environmental factors influence reproductive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult males who are planning to conceive and may have been exposed to PFAS chemicals.

Not a fit: Patients who are not planning to conceive or who have no history of PFAS exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for male infertility linked to environmental exposures.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence regarding the effects of PFAS on reproductive health, this specific investigation into the molecular mechanisms is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Detroit, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.