Investigating the role of specific human retroviruses in germ cell development
Official title: Roles of the LTR5_Hs human-specific endogenous retroviruses in primordial germ cells
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10898550 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific virus in our cells affects the way stem cells turn into germ cells, which are important for reproduction, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding more about human development and fertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $208,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD110839-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898550 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility or those interested in the biological mechanisms of germ cell development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by infertility or who do not have an interest in reproductive biology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how a specific type of human endogenous retrovirus, known as LTR5_Hs, is activated in primordial germ cells and human pluripotent stem cell-derived models. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which LTR5_Hs influences the differentiation of stem cells into germ cells and the release of virus-like particles from these cells. By utilizing advanced techniques such as CRISPR interference, the researchers will manipulate the expression of LTR5_Hs to observe its effects on cell behavior and development. This could provide insights into the fundamental processes of human reproduction and cell differentiation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of human germ cell development and potentially lead to new treatments for infertility.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of endogenous retroviruses in human biology, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shioda, Toshihiro — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shioda, Toshihiro
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.