Molecular signals that help the uterus accept an embryo
Molecular signaling in uterine receptivity to implantation
This research looks at how specific molecular signals in the uterus help an embryo attach and how problems with those signals can lead to trouble getting pregnant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11300937 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying the molecular conversation between the blastocyst (early embryo) and the uterine lining that builds the implantation chamber (crypt). They use laboratory models, including mice with targeted uterine gene deletions, apply HB-EGF to mimic embryo signals, and perform molecular assays to see how Vangl2 and ErbB family proteins interact. The team will observe whether loss of Vangl2 disrupts crypt formation, embryo spacing, and decidualization and whether HB-EGF-driven signaling can restore those processes. The goal is to explain mechanisms behind implantation-related subfertility so future diagnostics or treatments can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with repeated implantation failure or unexplained subfertility thought to involve uterine factors would be the most relevant patient group.
Not a fit: Patients whose infertility is caused primarily by embryo genetic abnormalities or male-factor infertility are less likely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to diagnose or treat uterine causes of implantation failure and subfertility.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and molecular studies have linked HB-EGF and Wnt/PCP components to implantation, but the proposed connection between Vangl2 and ErbB signaling is a novel angle.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Xiaofei — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Sun, Xiaofei
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 below.