Investigating the role of a key maternal factor in early embryo development
Official title: EXAMINING THE ROLE OF BMAL1, A NOVEL MATERNAL FACTOR IN PREIMPLANTATION DEVELOPMENT
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10887644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called BMAL1 affects the early development of eggs and embryos, which could help us understand why some couples have trouble getting pregnant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $145,950 |
| NIH project number | 5K99HD107217-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are couples experiencing unexplained infertility, particularly those who have not achieved a viable pregnancy despite trying to conceive.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infertility due to known genetic or anatomical causes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the BMAL1 gene in the early stages of embryo development, particularly during oogenesis and the maternal to zygotic transition. By studying how BMAL1 influences the development of oocytes and early embryos, the research aims to identify genetic factors that contribute to unexplained infertility. The approach involves examining the effects of BMAL1 on gene regulation and embryo viability, using animal models to gather data on early developmental processes. This could provide insights into why some couples experience difficulties conceiving.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating unexplained infertility, potentially improving pregnancy outcomes for affected couples.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors affecting embryo development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cassin, Jessica — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Cassin, Jessica
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.