Investigating the role of Rok and Cmb in male sperm development

The role of Rok and its substrate Cmb the male germline

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11144556

This study is looking at how two proteins, Rok and Combover, help fruit flies develop healthy sperm, which could give us important insights into male fertility in other animals, including humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-11144556 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how Rok and its substrate Combover (Cmb) function in the male germline, particularly in the development of sperm in fruit flies. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these proteins contribute to spermiogenesis, the process of sperm formation, and how they ensure proper sperm separation and packaging. By examining the interactions between the cytoskeleton and the plasma membrane during sperm development, the research seeks to uncover critical checkpoints that could have implications for understanding male fertility in other species, including mammals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility issues related to sperm development or those interested in male reproductive health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or those with female reproductive health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into male fertility and potential treatments for infertility related to sperm development.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of Rok and Cmb in male gametogenesis has not been extensively studied, similar research in other areas of reproductive biology has shown promising results.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, 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.
Conditions cancer metastasis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.