Investigating sperm genetics in men with recurrent pregnancy loss
Official title: The genome integrity and epigenome of sperm from men with recurrent pregnancy loss
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11056828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic factors in men's sperm might play a role in couples who have experienced multiple miscarriages, with the goal of finding new ways to help those couples understand and overcome this challenge.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $642,094 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD108124-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men whose partners have experienced two or more miscarriages without a known cause.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or those with identified causes for their miscarriages may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors in sperm that may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in couples. It aims to analyze sperm samples from men whose partners have experienced multiple miscarriages, looking specifically at DNA fragmentation and methylation patterns. By shifting the focus from solely female factors to include male contributions, the study seeks to uncover new diagnostic and therapeutic options for couples facing unexplained RPL. The methodology involves comprehensive molecular analyses of sperm from a large cohort of affected couples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for couples struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss.
How similar studies have gone: While the focus on male factors in recurrent pregnancy loss is relatively novel, there is emerging evidence suggesting that sperm quality impacts pregnancy outcomes, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mak, Winifred W — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Mak, Winifred W
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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.