Sperm mitochondrial tests for male fertility
Sperm mitochondrial biomarkers and male reproductive health
['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11260154
This project tests whether measuring mitochondrial DNA in sperm can help predict fertility and the chances of conception or treatment success for men trying to father children.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11260154 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would provide a semen sample so researchers can measure sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number and specific deletions. The team will compare those mitochondrial measurements with standard semen tests, time-to-pregnancy, fertilization success, and clinical treatment outcomes using large groups of participants and clinical records. Researchers will analyze whether mitochondrial biomarkers explain infertility or treatment failure better than conventional measures. Participation may include follow-up visits and sample processing at Wayne State University in Detroit.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are adult men who are having trouble conceiving, have abnormal semen parameters, or are undergoing fertility evaluation or treatment.
Not a fit: Men who are not trying to father a child, whose infertility is clearly caused by their partner, or whose condition is unrelated to sperm function may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to better diagnostic tests that explain why some men struggle to conceive and help tailor fertility care and treatment choices.
How similar studies have performed: Previous smaller studies, including work by this team, have shown promising links between sperm mitochondrial DNA and infertility but larger confirmation is needed.
Where this research is happening
DETROIT, UNITED STATES
- WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY — DETROIT, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PILSNER, J. RICHARD — WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PILSNER, J. RICHARD
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.