Investigating sperm mitochondrial biomarkers and their impact on male reproductive health
Official title: Sperm mitochondrial biomarkers and male reproductive health
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11040338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how sperm health affects male infertility, aiming to find new ways to understand and improve fertility for couples trying to conceive by exploring the role of sperm's mitochondrial DNA.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $583,177 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD110462-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040338 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include men experiencing infertility issues or couples struggling to conceive.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing infertility or those with female factor infertility may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding male factor infertility, which accounts for up to 50% of infertility cases in couples. It aims to develop novel biomarkers related to sperm mitochondrial DNA that could provide deeper insights into male reproductive health beyond traditional semen analysis. By examining mitochondrial DNA copy number and deletions, the study seeks to identify biological determinants that influence sperm function and fertility outcomes. The goal is to enhance clinical care and public health interventions for couples facing infertility challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment options for male infertility, ultimately increasing the chances of conception for couples.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using mitochondrial biomarkers to predict male fertility outcomes, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pilsner, J. Richard — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Pilsner, J. Richard
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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.