Investigating immune cell roles in inflammation related to infertility
Official title: Lymphocyte function in inflammatory disorders of human endometrium and decidua
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11250248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the uterus might cause inflammation that can affect pregnancy, especially for people dealing with conditions like endometriosis or PCOS, to help find better ways to support fertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $132,338 |
| NIH project number | 3P50HD112034-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11250248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing infertility or subfertility related to endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without endometriosis or PCOS, or those not experiencing infertility, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how immune cells, particularly T and B lymphocytes, contribute to inflammation in the endometrium and decidua, which are critical for successful implantation and pregnancy. By examining the characteristics and behaviors of these immune cells throughout the menstrual cycle and during early pregnancy, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind chronic inflammation associated with conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The research will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the immune cell populations and their specific responses, potentially revealing new insights into how immune dysregulation affects fertility. This could lead to improved strategies for managing infertility in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve reproductive outcomes for women suffering from infertility due to endometriosis or PCOS.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on endometrial immune cells in these conditions is relatively novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding immune roles in other inflammatory disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huddleston, Heather G — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Huddleston, Heather G
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.