New testis proteins linked to sperm development and male fertility
Functional analysis of novel testis-expressed secreted and transmembrane proteins
Researchers are finding and testing proteins made in the testis to learn how they help sperm develop and to find targets that could treat male infertility or lead to new male contraceptives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11311906 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses computer-based searches to find genes that are active in the reproductive tract and then creates gene knockouts in mice using CRISPR to see which genes affect sperm and fertility. They focus on secreted, GPI-anchored, and transmembrane proteins because those are more likely to be accessible to drugs or antibodies. When knocking out certain genes causes fertility defects in mice, the researchers study how sperm formation, maturation, or function is changed. Over many experiments they aim to translate those findings into possible causes of human male infertility or targets for non-hormonal male contraception.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with unexplained infertility and individuals or couples interested in future male-focused contraceptive options would be most relevant to the goals of this research.
Not a fit: People whose infertility stems from clearly identified chromosomal, hormonal, or female-factor causes may not directly benefit from these specific findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new causes of male infertility and point to non-hormonal drug or antibody targets for male contraception.
How similar studies have performed: Related gene-discovery and mouse knockout studies have already revealed multiple proteins that affect fertility, so the approach has produced useful leads though human treatments are still early-stage.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matzuk, Martin M. — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Matzuk, Martin M.
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.